Log compilation is another example. To stay on top of possible breaches, organizations need event correlation, and the more that software can do the job of compiling syslog output, for example, instead of having people do it, the better security awareness the organization has without any more staff time consumed.

Provisioning guest access or separate guest/contractor/staff traffic are two more examples where tools can dramatically offload IT time. Network infrastructure that automatically controls network access by taking into account the role of a person, rather than requiring the administration of virtual LANs and access control lists, provides another major time savings.

In many cases, gaining these operational savings requires some capital outlay. At first blush, this might sound like a money-losing approach. But given that operational expenses account for 80% of the ongoing cost of networks and capital equates to only 20%, spending a little capital up front can reap significant operational savings over the long term.