What Is the Joiner-Mover-Leaver Process?
The Joiner-Mover-Leaver (JML) process manages user access rights throughout an employee’s lifecycle. It focuses on three phases: joining the company, moving to a new role, and leaving. The goal is to ensure employees have only the access they need, following the principle of least privilege, which reduces risks from insider threats and external attacks.
The Joiner Phase: Onboarding Employees Securely
During onboarding, access rights are granted based on the employee’s role. IAM systems often automate provisioning, while managers may approve certain permissions. Proper onboarding ensures employees are productive without exposing sensitive data, reducing risks from misconfigured access.
The Mover Phase: Adjusting Access as Employees Change Roles
When employees change roles, their access needs evolve. The “Mover” phase updates permissions: granting new access and revoking obsolete rights. Without a structured process, lingering permissions can create security gaps. Proper management minimizes insider threats and ensures access aligns with current responsibilities.
The Leaver Phase: Securing the Offboarding Process
When an employee leaves, all access must be promptly revoked. The IAM system removes permissions, often combined with audits to prevent leftover access. A structured offboarding process reduces the risk of insider threats and accidental data exposure, protecting organizational security.
Why JML Is Crucial for Business Security
- Reduces Insider Threats: Employees get only the access needed at each stage.
- Ensures Compliance: Generates audit trails for regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS.
- Improves Efficiency: Automates access management, easing the workload for IT and HR.
- Prevents Data Breaches: Eliminates risks from outdated permissions.
- Protects Reputation: Demonstrates commitment to security, building trust with clients and stakeholders.
In Conclusion
The JML process structures access management throughout the employee lifecycle—joining, moving, or leaving. By implementing JML, businesses protect sensitive data, reduce insider threats, comply with regulations, and streamline operations. It’s a scalable, automated framework that strengthens security while supporting a productive work environment.