S 2.69 Establishing standard workstations

Initiation responsibility: Head of IT

Implementation responsibility: Head of IT, Administrator

A standard workstation is characterised 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:

Information security:

• Standard workstations are easier 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; downtimes are thus minimised
• Users can help each other concerning hard and software questions

System administration during 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.

Review questions:

• Are standard workstations defined for the organisation?
• Are deviations from the standard workstations only permitted in justified exceptional cases?