Software Installation Request Process

IT & Security Devices & Software Last reviewed: 2025-10-30 Owner: IT Operations

Purpose

This document describes the process for requesting software that is not included in the standard corporate desktop build or that requires a specific licence allocation. All software installed on Global Bank devices must be approved through this process to ensure compliance with licensing agreements, security standards, and regulatory requirements.

Policy Reference: IT-DEV-002
Applies To: All employees and contractors using Global Bank corporate devices

When to Submit a Request

You must submit a Software Installation Request if:

  • You need software that is on the Approved Software List but requires a licence allocation (specialist software).
  • You need software that is not currently on the Approved Software List.
  • You need a different version of an approved application for compatibility reasons.
  • You need a browser extension that is not in the approved extensions catalogue.

You do not need to submit a request for standard desktop software, which is pre-installed and automatically updated.

Request Process

Step 1: Check the Approved Software List

Before submitting a request, consult the Approved Software List (IT-DEV-001) to determine whether the software is already approved. If it is listed as specialist software, you may proceed directly to Step 2 to request a licence allocation.

Step 2: Submit the Request

  1. Log in to the IT Service Portal at servicedesk.globalbank.com.
  2. Navigate to Request a Service > Software Installation.
  3. Complete the request form with the following information:
    • Software name and publisher
    • Requested version
    • Business justification (describe why the software is needed and what alternatives were considered)
    • Number of licences required
    • Cost centre for licence charges (if applicable)
    • Whether the software requires internet access or elevated privileges
  4. Attach any relevant documentation, such as vendor quotes or technical requirements.
  5. Submit the request.

Step 3: Approval Workflow

The request follows a multi-stage approval process:

StageApproverSLA
1. Line Manager ApprovalRequestor's direct manager2 business days
2. Cost Centre ApprovalBudget holder (if licence cost applies)3 business days
3. Security ReviewIT Security Team5 business days
4. Software Review BoardSRB Committee (for new software only)Next scheduled meeting (fortnightly)
5. DeploymentIT Operations — Desktop Engineering3 business days after final approval

Step 4: Security Review

The IT Security Team evaluates all software requests against the following criteria:

  • Known vulnerabilities and vendor patch cadence
  • Data handling and privacy implications
  • Network access requirements
  • Compatibility with endpoint security tools (CrowdStrike, Defender)
  • Compliance with financial regulatory requirements (FCA, PRA, GDPR)

If the software does not meet security standards, the request will be rejected with a written explanation and suggested alternatives where available.

Step 5: Software Review Board

For software not already on the Approved List, the request is escalated to the Software Review Board (SRB). The SRB meets every second Wednesday and comprises representatives from IT Security, IT Operations, Legal, Compliance, and Procurement. The SRB evaluates the software against strategic, financial, and risk criteria before granting or denying approval.

Step 6: Deployment

Once all approvals are obtained, IT Operations will package the software and deploy it to your device through the Software Centre (Windows) or Self Service Portal (macOS). You will receive a notification when the software is available for installation.

Tracking Your Request

You can track the status of your request at any time through the IT Service Portal under My Requests. You will also receive email notifications at each stage of the approval process.

Emergency Requests

In exceptional circumstances where software is urgently required for a critical business need, the requestor's department head may submit an Emergency Software Request to the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for expedited review. Emergency approvals are granted at the CISO's discretion and are subject to a post-installation review by the SRB.

Contact

  • IT Service Desk: servicedesk@globalbank.com | Ext. 2000
  • Software Asset Management: sam@globalbank.com | Ext. 2150