A configuration management database (CMDB) is a key component in helping you to store information about your software and software assets so that you can make sense of what you have and optimize your opportunities to harness the power of the data at your disposal.
As you might expect when it comes to CMDB options, you have a choice of flexible packages tailored to suit your needs, and a good starting point would be to understand what CMDB can do for your organization and how to get the most out of this useful IT resource.
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What is it?
Although the concept of CMDB is fairly easy to understand, it pays to gain a good comprehension of the mechanics of how the database works and the role it plays in giving you problem-solving solutions.
In simple terms, a configuration management database should be viewed as a data repository that is mainly used to assist with configuration management, which is a core process within the information technology infrastructure library (ITIL).
The role of ITIL is to provide you with a framework where you have various functions available that enable you to control, discover, and track the various relationships that exist between your IT assets and any individual configurations that exist.
It will often be the case that you will rely on CMDB to provide you with accurate and current data that allows you to make informed strategic decisions.
An example of this in action would be when you are trying to deal with a malware attack, for instance. You could then use a CMDB to track each desktop’s OS to quickly identify which ones need patching to resolve the problem.
Why you need a CMDB
There are numerous benefits attached to investing in a CMDB, and as long as you input reliable and accurate data, it will deliver these benefits in various ways.
It should help reduce downtime and minimize the cost of equipment repairs and automated tasks as a result of improved IT efficiency.
You will be able to perform root cause analysis so that you can gain a better comprehension of CI issues and find a resolution.
It will also help you to meet regulatory compliance standards with a greater degree of ease.
Ultimately, a CMDB will provide you with a single font of knowledge that will allow you to enjoy a clear overview of your IT infrastructure.
Key characteristics
There are a number of core functional characteristics of a CMDB.
It will give you compliance features which include detailed records and high visibility of assets for auditing purposes.
Dashboards with CI metrics and analytics ensure that it is easy to track the health of your system.
Discovery tools allow you to collect hardware and software information with ease.
You will be able to use IT service mapping to provide a graphical illustration of dependencies and relationships, plus you will get access controls to help maintain hierarchy protocols.
When you invest in a CMDB you will be helping to eliminate outdated information and improving your IT efficiency at the same time.
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