Leadline Inc.Control Requirements
LS-22: Manager Approval for Access Requests
Manager approval required for access requests to network, utilities, applications, and databases
Control Description
Requests to add and/or modify access to the network, to the in-scope utilities, to the in-scope applications, and/or to the related databases are approved by each user's manager prior to access being granted.
Plain Meaning
This control requires that all access requests must be approved by the requesting user's manager before access is granted. This ensures that access is only provided to users who have legitimate business need and manager approval.
Implementation
Approval Process Requirements
Approval Workflow
- All access requests require manager approval
- Clear approval process with defined roles and responsibilities
- Documentation of all approvals and access changes
- Verification that access was granted as approved
- Regular review of access approvals and usage
Approval Information Required
- User requesting access
- Systems or applications requiring access
- Business justification for access
- Requested access level and permissions
- Duration of access needed
- Manager approval with signature/email
Implementation Approach
Approval Process Options
- Email-Based Approval: Simple email approval process
- Form-Based Requests: Structured forms for access requests
- Workflow Systems: Automated workflow systems for larger organizations
- Identity Management: Integrated with identity management systems
Simple Implementation Steps
- Define Approval Process: Create clear approval workflow
- Create Request Forms: Develop standardized access request forms
- Assign Responsibilities: Define who approves what types of access
- Implement Tracking: Set up system to track requests and approvals
- Train Managers: Educate managers on approval responsibilities
- Monitor Compliance: Regularly check that approvals are being followed
Approval Documentation
- Maintain records of all access requests
- Store manager approval communications
- Document access granted and when
- Track access usage and effectiveness
- Regular review of access approvals
Key Success Factors
- Clear Process: Well-defined approval workflow
- Manager Engagement: Active manager participation in approval process
- Documentation: Complete records of all approvals and changes
- Timely Processing: Prompt handling of access requests
- Regular Review: Periodic review of access approvals and usage
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- No Approval Process: Missing formal approval for access requests
- Delayed Approvals: Slow processing of access requests
- Poor Documentation: Missing records of approvals and changes
- No Follow-up: Not verifying that approved access was granted
Related Controls
- LS-04: External user account management
- LS-19: Access termination
- LS-24: Quarterly access reviews