Sometimes, it pays to say no. A new study from Microsoft has found that allowing users to buy what they want and use their PCs the way they want can cost a company big bucks. The study found, for example, that simple across-the-board rules like automating password resets, managing PC firewalls with a centralized and comprehensive security program, ensuring that users install only software sanctioned by the IT department and limiting the PC settings users can change manually can save companies a significant amount of money. The study, of course, encouraged companies to use Microsoft technologies but it really comes down to common sense. Give people the ability to use technology, but don't let them run amok.

Read more about standardizing IT use in the workplace:
- read the blog at CIO