Implementation of an IT Charter in a company makes it possible to set rules for the use of IT equipment by employees, but also provides for penalties in case of violation of these rules. Its implementation has also been recommended by the National Commission for Computing and Liberties (CNIL).
Usually integrated into the company’s internal rules (or added as an annex to these rules), the IT charter can also be integrated into the employment contract (although the first solution is preferred).
In this article, let’s find out why to create an IT charter.
The IT Charter serves as a reference document for your teams
The IT Charter is the first defense in protecting your data. Employees, contractors, partners and supervisors may refer to this document to limit threats, breaches and data loss.
It defines the framework for using the IT tools provided to employees and freelancers. You will find, in particular, the operating modes of CRM, ERP, messaging applications and other internal software.
The IT Charter also defines the measures to be taken for the management and processing of data.
For the employee, this is a useful resource! He does not need to constantly refer to the CIO (Director of IT and/or Information Systems) to solve certain problems. This can improve its productivity as well as the productivity of your IT managers.
IT Charter defines the barriers between personal and professional life
This document sets out the conditions for access to computer terminals, as well as limits on use for personal purposes. Similarly, this Charter describes the terms of use of social networks (and the Internet in general) in a professional context.
Its purpose is to prevent personal and business data from being confused, or that employees reveal sensitive information on social networks.
The IT charter should also include sanctions in case of non-compliance with established rules. For this purpose, it has legal significance.
IT Charter inspires better use of IT tools
Depending on your business, IT infrastructure can focus most of your business budget. With a clearly defined charter, you can optimize the use of your equipment.
Employees know how to use your software effectively to maximize value. Thus, you are saved from unexpected maintenance or repair expenses.
IT charter strengthens cyber security
Strengthening cyber security is a core asset of the IT Charter! Data leaks and hacking can be very costly for a business. And contrary to popular belief, it’s not just big corporations that attract hackers!
43% of cyber attacks affect SMEs and 60% of affected small businesses file for bankruptcy within 6 months. Human error is the cause of data leaks in 95% of cases.
It is therefore important to make your employees aware of good cyber security practices. It starts with the IT Charter. Clear and well-written policies can go a long way in mitigating these risks.
For example, you can set limits on the use of personal computing tools or define a password policy within your company. Don’t forget to remember the basic rules in terms of malware protection: avoid opening attachments from strangers, call your manager when in doubt, don’t write your credentials on a sticky note, use strong pass words, etc.
