According to a study by Juniper Research, the global number of industrial IoT connections will increase from 17.7 billion in 2020 to 36.8 billion in 2025. In addition to this growth, there are other drivers that will require many organizations to expand their existing network infrastructure. This means more scope, more performance, but also more complexity – which makes the need to maintain an overview of the IT infrastructure even more critical.
In the ITIL framework, Configuration Management (CM) ensures accurate and complete information about all components critical to IT services. Imagine it as the detailed map of your IT infrastructure, pinpointing every server, software, and connection. This information resides in a central repository called the Configuration Management Database (CMDB). In addition to the elements of the IT infrastructure, this database also displays information on the status of all configuration items (CIs) and their connections to each other, thus helping to better understand dependencies.
Key capabilities of CM
- Identification: Accurately recognizing and registering all CIs within your IT landscape.
- Control: Establishing defined procedures for adding, changing, and retiring CIs, reducing errors, and maintaining consistency.
- Verification: Regularly validating the accuracy and completeness of CI data within the CMDB.
- Status Accounting: Tracking the lifecycle of each CI, knowing its current state, location, and configuration.
- Relationships: Mapping the complex interdependencies between CIs, helping predict impacts of changes.
Beyond the Basics: Exceptional CM
While the above forms the foundation, high-end CM means:
- Automation: Streamline data capture and updates using automated tools, reducing manual effort and errors.
- Integration: Seamlessly connect CM with other IT processes like Change Management and Incident Management; and above all a powerful, holistic, and transparent IT infrastructure management approach.
- Reports and analyses: Use CM data for insightful reports, graphical evaluations and as support for proactive decisions.
- Governance & Compliance: Enforce data integrity and adhere to regulatory requirements.
Effective CM offers numerous benefits:
- Reduced downtime: Quickly pinpoint the root cause of incidents, leading to faster resolutions.
- Improved change management: Assess potential impacts of changes on dependent CIs, minimizing risks.
- Enhanced IT asset management: Optimize resource allocation and cost control based on accurate data.
- Easy proof of compliance: Demonstrate compliance through complete documentation and robust CM practices.
In Conclusion:
CM, powered by a reliable CMDB, acts as the central nervous system of your IT infrastructure. By investing in its key capabilities and striving for excellence, you gain invaluable insights, improve operational efficiency, and ultimately deliver superior IT services.
Find out more about configuration management, the potential of a modern, high-performance CMDB and why it is business-critical in the context of digital transformation:
Whitepaper: CMDB – Managing Digital Transformation
