The Evolution of IAM: A Look Back and Beyond
How IAM Experts is Shaping the Next Era of Digital Security
Published: 16 September 2024

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Key Milestones
IAM Experts
Our Approach
Emerging Trends
Securing access to sensitive systems and data is a fundamental challenge in today’s digital landscape. Over the past two decades, Identity and Access Management (IAM) has evolved from a niche part of cybersecurity to a critical pillar of modern information security. As cybersecurity threats become more sophisticated, it’s essential that the systems designed to protect organisations evolve in response.
Founded in 2008, IAM Experts is led by Anthony Mornet, a pioneer in the IAM field. With decades of experience, Anthony has witnessed firsthand the rapid evolution of IAM and its critical role in digital security.
According to him, “IAM has transformed from a small element of cybersecurity to a central component of most organisations’ security strategies. We’ve witnessed this evolution firsthand, and we’re only scratching the surface of where IAM is headed.”
In this article, we will take a journey through the history of IAM, highlight the critical trends shaping its future, and explore how our company IAM Experts is paving the way forward.
The Early Days of IAM: A Foundation for Growth
IAM began as a way to address the growing complexity of IT systems and the need to secure employee access to internal networks and systems. In the early 2000s, most organisations relied on manual access control processes that were inefficient and prone to error.
Anthony explained that “It all started with simple web applications. Over time, we realised that by automating workflows and improving reporting, we could revolutionise how we manage access.”
This evolution laid the groundwork for more sophisticated IAM platforms, with the ability to automate processes like employee onboarding and manage the integration of acquired companies. The introduction of these features marked a key milestone, transforming IAM from basic access control to a comprehensive, structured solution.
Key Milestones in IAM Evolution
IAM has evolved rapidly over the years, driven by changing business needs and technological advancements. Here is a brief timeline of some key milestones:

As it developed, IAM expanded into a comprehensive domain, encompassing several key disciplines.
Identity Governance & Administration (IGA)
Ensures organisations manage access effectively, enhancing compliance and decision-making.
Privileged Access Management (PAM):
Protects high-risk accounts, such as admin credentials, against insider threats and breaches.
Access Management (AM) & Customer IAM (CIAM):
Controls real-time user access to systems and applications. CIAM secures customer identities while optimising digital experiences in e-commerce and online services.
IAM Experts: Leading the Charge in IAM Innovation
IAM Experts has been at the forefront of this evolution since its founding. The company, led by Anthony Mornet, has played a pivotal role in driving innovation and providing organisations with the IAM solutions they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
“We started with a disruptive approach to IAM, and that is still how we operate today”, shares Anthony.
With over 150 projects completed across 22 countries, IAM Experts has established a strong global presence. The company’s team of specialists offers tailored, vendor-agnostic IAM solutions to organisations, helping them adopt best practices and stay ahead of evolving threats.
Our Approach: Tailored, Global, and Client-Centric
At IAM Experts, we pride ourselves on a customer-centric and vendor-agnostic approach. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, we take the time to understand your unique challenges and craft IAM strategies tailored to your business.
As Anthony explains, “We collaborate closely with our clients, conducting IAM assessments, technical audits, and defining strategic roadmaps that align with best practices. Our global team, fluent in over five languages, ensures we can deliver projects worldwide, adapting to different cultures and local needs.”
Our comprehensive range of services include:
- Advisory Services: We assess your IAM maturity, develop strategies, and create roadmaps to address your challenges and optimise your identity management capabilities.
- Implementation Services: Our experts provide both business consultancy and technical implementation, ensuring a seamless and successful IAM deployment.
- Managed Services: From basic technical support to the full outsourcing of IAM operations, we ensure your IAM system remains robust, secure, and scalable
With over 360 specialists working across multiple continents, IAM Experts offers a level of expertise and flexibility that few other companies can match.
The Impact of Cloud and AI on IAM
Two key trends are currently reshaping IAM: cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI). Once reliant on on-premises infrastructure, businesses are now increasingly turning to scalable cloud-based IAM solutions. These solutions provide greater flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for organisations of all sizes.
“Cloud computing has completely changed the IAM landscape,” says Anthony. “It allows businesses to scale their identity management systems without the limitations of traditional infrastructure.”
In addition to cloud solutions, AI is playing an increasingly important role in enhancing IAM. AI is enabling automation in security processes, improving anomaly detection, and enabling more intelligent decision-making.
“AI is not just about staying competitive, it’s about revolutionising how we manage identities and access,” details Anthony. “We are only at the beginning of this transformation, and we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve.”
Emerging Trends in IAM
As IAM continues to evolve, several key trends trends are poised to shape its future:
- Zero Trust Security Models: These models emphasise continuous access verification, ensuring that no user or device is trusted by default, even if they’re inside the corporate network.
- AI and Automation: Leveraging AI for reducing manual effort while enhancing threat detection and response capabilities.
- Cloud-Native IAM: Organisations are increasingly adopting cloud-native IAM strategies to manage identities in hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
- Enhanced User Experience: Balancing strong security with seamless access, especially for customers in CIAM (Customer IAM) strategies, to provide an optimal experience.
IAM is no longer just a technical requirement. It is becoming a strategic business asset, ensuring both security and efficiency. As the market evolves, organisations will need experienced partners to help them navigate the changing landscape.
Why Choose IAM Experts?
When you partner with IAM Experts, you’re leveraging decades of experience, a global network, and a commitment to innovation.
“We’re independent and always prioritise our clients’ best interests. Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and we continually enhance our services to stay ahead of industry trends and complement our partners’ offerings”, says Anthony.
With a client retention rate of 93%, IAM Experts has built a reputation for delivering exceptional service and effective IAM solutions that meet the ever-changing needs of businesses.
The Future of IAM
As digital transformation accelerates, IAM will play an even greater role in securing identities and protecting critical business assets. With the rise of AI, cloud computing, and advanced security models like Zero Trust, the future of IAM is more exciting and dynamic than ever.
IAM Experts is committed to leading the charge, helping businesses adopt secure, scalable, and intelligent IAM solutions to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.
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