Page 7 - The MILConnection: Summer2021

ITA Connect:

An employee directory to rule them all

It started with more than a dozen separate and difficult-to-maintain databases shared across
a global organization with 2,500+ employees. It ended with a clean and efficient single sign-
on, Office 365-based solution.
MIL’s clients at the International Trade Administration (ITA) include a variety of subject
matter experts, whose specialties range from aerospace exports to Brazil to privacy
protection rules in the European Union. Tracking, updating, and locating these experts is a
tremendous job. However, engaging the right people to assist U.S. exporters, foreign buyers,
or investors is the difference between a successful engagement and a frustrating experience.

The original concept to design and build a comprehensive and single authoritative source
for entities (users, offices, and locations) began with a cross-agency team that conceived of a top to bottom solution. In addition to
locating experts, the final system would also automate identity validation, access management and other business functions across ITA’s
enterprise platforms and applications.
Using a suite of Azure, MS Office 365, and Microsoft Identity Manager, MIL created a comprehensive system to manage entity metadata
and feed it into identity and access management components. End-user applications such as staff and office lookup directories may also
be created directly from system data.
Users can now access a streamlined entry form to request an account for a new employee, an approval workflow allows for verification,
approval, and eventually activation without a need for manual entry of the user into ITA’s Active Directory. Each account is verified
and activated through ITA Connect, and updates, changes, and removals are also executed through the system. Existing employees can
update their own profiles to indicate expertise in industry, geography, and specialized trade topics as well as professional certifications,
and job responsibilities.
The application officially launched in November 2020 and a full-scale adoption program was implemented in early April of this year
and boasts a nearly 50% compliance rate! MIL leadership is incredibly proud of the team that contributed to this effort and looks
forward to the next successes that are being developed as we speak!

Upcoming Events

See you there!
We are excited to (safely) resume our DC area employee celebration events! A separate email with more details will follow so check
your MIL email often. Our first few forays into social gatherings will include a day of fun at Kings Dominion and our eagerly awaited
return to Mayo Beach for MIL’s annual Crab Feast.
Kings Dominion
Get ready for FUN! You will have access to world-class rides and an all-inclusive water park. And, with COVID protocols in place, you
can enjoy the experience with confidence.
Crab Feast
MIL’s legendary awards celebration will be held on October 2, 2021. We can’t wait to honor our deserving colleagues in person. Our
outdoor event is being planned to maximize enjoyment AND safety so see you there!

If you are in the Charleston area, stay tuned! Events are in the planning stages and will be announced soon!

summer 2021 | The MIL Connection | 7