How would you measure the success of Aruba's ClearPass Policy Manager?

Introduction

Measuring the success of Aruba's ClearPass Policy Manager requires a comprehensive approach that considers multiple stakeholders and the product's role in network security and access management. To address this product success metrics challenge, I'll follow a structured framework covering core metrics, supporting indicators, and risk factors while considering all key stakeholders.

Step 1

Product Context

Aruba's ClearPass Policy Manager is a network access control (NAC) solution that provides secure authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) for wired, wireless, and VPN networks. It's designed to enhance network security by enforcing granular policies based on user identity, device type, and location.

Key stakeholders include:

1. IT administrators: Seeking efficient network management and security
2. End-users: Requiring seamless and secure access to network resources
3. C-suite executives: Concerned with overall network security and compliance
4. Aruba sales team: Focused on product adoption and revenue growth

User flow:

1. Device connection attempt: User tries to connect to the network
2. Authentication: ClearPass verifies user credentials and device information
3. Policy enforcement: Based on predefined rules, ClearPass grants or denies access
4. Ongoing monitoring: Continuous assessment of device and user behavior

ClearPass fits into Aruba's broader strategy of providing comprehensive, intelligent networking solutions. It complements their switching and wireless offerings, creating a unified security fabric.

Compared to competitors like Cisco ISE, ClearPass is known for its flexibility and multi-vendor support, making it suitable for heterogeneous network environments.

Product Lifecycle Stage: ClearPass is in the maturity stage, with a established market presence and ongoing feature enhancements to maintain competitiveness.

Software-specific context:

• Platform: Runs on dedicated hardware appliances or virtual machines
• Integration points: Active Directory, MDM solutions, SIEM tools
• Deployment model: On-premises or cloud-managed