S 2.69 Establishing standard workstations

Initiation responsibility: Head of IT section

Implementation responsibility: Head of IT Section, Administrator

A standard workstation is denoted by standard hardware and software and their configuration. The planning and establishment of a standard workstation is usually performed taking into consideration the task, reliability, ergonomics, speed and serviceability. It is carried out by specialist personnel. The establishment of standard workstations is advantageous in several points:

IT Security:

• Standard workstations are easy to include in security concepts

• The expense for IT documentation is reduced

IT Management:

• The procurement of large numbers of the same components reduces costs

• The use of impermissible software is easier to detect

• The "envy factor" between users is eliminated as a result of standardised IT equipment

IT Users:

• When it is necessary to change workstations, it is not necessary to receive new training. Inoperable time is thus minimised.

• Users can help each other concerning hard and software questions

System administration for installation and maintenance:

• A well-planned and tested installation can be installed without error and with little effort

• The standard working environment facilitates the user service (maintenance and support)

Training:

• The participants are trained in the same environment as at the workplace.

Additional controls:

• Are any differences compared to standard workstation justified?

• Are these reasons reviewed on a regular basis?

• Which factors are taken into consideration when planning and establishing standard workstations?