I suspect that the 17% difference was down to a Vendor App being a business tool, whereas personal software is for personal use. I can see why the former is a larger threat since it is much more likely to be interacting with the organisation’s data.

On Access, I figured it might be the software that’s the problem. I’ve seen many Access databases start off as small local idea and end up with way too many users causing speed and stability issues. Migrating to MSS or whatever is tough and it’s generally easier to start from scratch giving IT an “urgent” project they never knew existed.

On the other points, we may well repeat the survey next year to look at trends and its always wise to learn from the answers and reassess what questions should be asked. This survey was done on a purely point and click basis with virtually no room for providing rationale behind decisions. It would be nice to know for sure, but sadly it’s difficult to gain people’s participation for more than a few minutes to complete any survey.

Look out for more results from the survey shortly…putting the results above in context will provide further insights.

I wonder why there is a 17% difference between item 1 & 2? Does it lead to confunsion because we use vendor XYZ so local help desk thinks the app should be supported when it isn’t.

3. 56% Locally written scripts in VB or other language

The tools are on the users systems; but as a user, we shouldn’t use them. There is more to life than just cutting and pasting. I am curious to the rational.

4. 50% Local Access Databases

Curious about the rational. Technically, DB should be backed up and stored on the server. I have worked at numerous companies on both sides of the fence. But as a user; the allotment of storage space is something like 10 megs at most companies. User cannot typically store DB’s on servers with the space alloted. Great follow up question, how much space is given to users. On a related note: I have been told at previous companies 10 megs is the limit but there are exceptions. Somehow I was never consider an exception; nor anyone of my co-workers. Kind of funny chastising stopped after quoting DB size.

5. 39% Complex Excel Spreadsheets

Why another great follow up question.

6. 39% Using SaaS solutions e.g. Salesforce.com and Google Apps.

Why? Security concerns? Another great follow up. I would agree personally with the security aspect on this particular issue.

7. 28% Macros in Word/Excel/Terminal emulators
Why?

PS: Great survey, I would just love to see the rational behind the decisions.