Gartner Information Technology Research

How to Modernize the Configuration Management Database

Published: 03 February 2020

ID: G00463995

Analyst(s): Stephen White

Summary

Traditional CMDBs are unable to keep pace with the rate of change as cloud-based solutions and new ways of working, such as DevOps, are adopted. This research helps I&O technical professionals modernize their CMDB by moving to a federated model backed by integrated workflows and automation.

Table Of Contents

Problem Statement

The Gartner Approach

The Guidance Framework

  • Framework Terms
  • Prework
    • Gaining Organizational Support
    • Engaging Stakeholders
    • Establishing Success Metrics
    • Aligning With Your Charter
  • Phase 1: Scope the CMDB
    • Step 1.1 Define the Use Cases
    • Step 1.2 Define Interaction Types Between the Use Cases and CI Records
    • Step 1.3 Rationalize CI Records and Attributes
    • Step 1.4 Best Practices for Scoping the CMDB
  • Phase 2: Federate the CMDB Into a CMS
    • Step 2.1 Identify Data Sources
    • Step 2.2 Define Authoritative Sources of Truth
    • Step 2.3 Model the CMS
    • Step 2.4 Best Practices for Federating the CMDB
  • Phase 3: Integrate and Automate the CMS
    • Step 3.1 Integrate ITSM Workflows
    • Step 3.2 Use Discovery to Automate Configuration Management Activities
    • Step 3.3 Synchronize the CMDB With Distributed Sources of Truth
    • Step 3.4 Best Practices for Integrating and Automating the CMS

Risks and Pitfalls

Gartner Recommended Reading

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