Achieving operational efficiency through portfolio rationalization, IT modernization and zero trust implementations

What are zero trust principles?

An IT modernization initiative often provides an opportunity to implement zero trust principles. Zero trust reinforces some of the goals of modernization, and the necessary business process reengineering and organizational change management that come with modernization can ease the path to enacting the new practices. This is accomplished by identifying and removing duplicative, outdated or unused applications.

Zero trust is a critical component of IT modernization efforts, and its creator, John Kindervag, emphasizes that it is intended to be simple. However, as straightforward as it can be, it does demand care and attention to detail. 

The importance of harnessing application proliferation

Application rationalization, as a subset of the larger zero trust paradigm, is also an ongoing effort. With every new application that comes online, there are other applications already in use that might become outmoded or redundant. Harnessing application proliferation is a project in itself, but it is essential to ensure your zero trust framework is as effective as it can be.

How do zero trust principles benefit IT modernization?

The goals of IT modernization typically include improving efficiency, agility, scalability, reducing costs, enhancing security and enabling digital transformation. Zero trust provides a robust security framework that supports IT modernization efforts.

Zero trust can reduce the organization’s potential attack surface while increasing operational efficiency and reducing software costs with its removal of unnecessary applications. This facilitates modernization and zero trust implementation, providing a simpler, more streamlined array of components that must be accounted for.

After a thorough assessment, the organization can retire, replace or consolidate applications that no longer serve a useful purpose. The remaining high-value applications and systems provide the best value for the cost, rather than supporting redundant and disused elements. Moreover, you will find your IT environment has become less complex and easier to manage.

Improve business operations with an integrated, holistic approach to modernization

An integrated strategy should combine key elements to create a holistic approach to improving business operations. Aligning these strategies with business and mission objectives facilitates optimized processes, streamlined IT environments and enhanced workflows.

An integrated strategy should combine:

• Portfolio rationalization
• IT modernization
• Zero trust implementations

Modern IT infrastructures and security frameworks enable rapid development and deployment of new products and services. As executive orders shape federal IT strategies, the ability to deploy applications and functionality more rapidly contributes to enhanced operational efficiency, security and agility.

Modernization yields more efficient operations, enabling agencies to cut costs while achieving mission outcomes. Moreover, improving operational efficiency and the deployment of modern applications often improves stakeholder engagement. Efficient and secure IT operations build trust and confidence among customers and stakeholders, fostering a positive reputation and building productive long-term relationships.

Appreciating the big picture: zero trust is a journey, not a destination

Understand there is no defined end state for zero trust—you never actually get there. It is an information security model that organizations continuously refine and integrate new technologies into.

Careful attention to all the pillars will lead to a more successful effort and operational efficiency, enabling you to more easily expand and revise to keep up with changes. For more insight into zero trust visit www.cgi.com/zero-trust.