Is Complete Automation the Answer to Microsoft 365 Governance?

In the evolving landscape of digital technology, the notion of complete automation has become a sought-after goal for many enterprises. Particularly, in the sphere of Microsoft 365 governance, the allure of automation is hard to overlook. I’ve often written and talked about the problem of “managing by spreadsheet,” and being overreliant on dashboards and tools for managing systems and people. There are some common misconceptions about governance and the tools within the space, which I’ll cover in this post, as well as a need for equilibrium between automation and manual review.

The Allure, and Challenges, of Automation

Complete automation of Microsoft 365 governance presents a compelling vision of efficiency, consistency, and resource optimization. It has emerged as a robust solution for minimizing human error, reducing operational costs, and enhancing productivity. Many organizations have successfully incorporated automation into their governance strategies, realizing significant benefits and operational improvements.

However, the allure of complete automation also raises questions about its feasibility and effectiveness in addressing the intricate and dynamic nature of governance. The notion that automation can solve all governance challenges is a myth that requires thoughtful examination and debunking.

While the benefits of automation are undeniable, it is crucial to acknowledge its limitations. Complete automation lacks the capability for contextual understanding, which is integral to navigating the complexities of the Microsoft 365 environment. There have been instances where reliance on automation led to oversights and misinterpretations, necessitating human intervention.

The dynamic nature of governance implies that it cannot be entirely preprogrammed. Variabilities, exceptions, and evolving regulations necessitate a level of adaptability and discernment that automation alone cannot provide. Having more data, reports, and dashboards is a good thing – but at some point governance requires actually talking to people. A well-tuned governance strategy includes technology, process, and people. A balanced approach is imperative to address the challenges and limitations inherent in complete automation.

The Importance of Manual Review

Manual review brings to the table the invaluable human elements of insight and intuition. It plays a critical role in addressing unforeseen challenges and anomalies that automation might overlook. The human touch in governance is akin to having a safety net, ensuring that decisions and actions are not only efficient but also well-informed and judicious.

Balancing speed and accuracy, manual review complements automation by providing the necessary checks and balances. It adds a layer of assurance and diligence, ensuring that the governance process is robust, comprehensive, and aligned with organizational objectives. In a prior role in which I owned the governance activities in support of our internal SharePoint environments, I don’t think a single governance cross-team meeting happened where opinions and actions were NOT changed when context was added to the data in front of us. In other words, the data painted one picture….but not the complete picture.

Finding the Balance

Achieving a balanced approach to Microsoft 365 governance involves integrating automation and manual review strategically. It is about assessing when to automate and when to employ manual review, ensuring that each complements the other effectively. Tailoring this integration to organizational needs and goals is paramount to deriving optimal benefits. A balanced strategy not only enhances governance but also fosters adaptability and resilience in the face of evolving challenges and complexities.

To achieve balanced governance, organizations need to develop a comprehensive governance strategy that seamlessly incorporates both automation and manual review. Continuous evaluation and adjustment of policies and processes are essential to ensuring that the governance framework remains relevant and effective.

Additionally, fostering collaboration between IT and business units is crucial. It encourages a unified approach to governance, aligning technological capabilities with business objectives. Know your stakeholders. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, organizations can build a robust and balanced governance structure.

Future Trends

As we look towards the future, the role of automation in Microsoft 365 governance is set to evolve. Emerging technologies, like Copilot and other AI solutions, are poised to impact governance frameworks, necessitating a proactive approach to adapting and integrating new solutions. But it’s important to understand that industry trends and employee behaviors also change on a regular basis. Anticipating future governance challenges is essential for organizations to stay ahead of the curve. Preparing for a more integrated and adaptive approach is crucial. The evolution of automation necessitates continuous learning and adaptability. Organizations must remain vigilant and responsive to leverage the opportunities presented by future trends in automation for Microsoft 365 governance.

While complete automation offers numerous benefits, there is no standalone solution to solve every governance need inside of Microsoft 365. The myth of automation as a cure-all needs debunking to pave the way for a more balanced and integrated approach. The synergy between automation and manual review is integral to building a resilient and effective governance framework. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, striking the right balance will remain pivotal to navigating the complexities of governance effectively.