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Configuration
Management Database
The Configuration
Management Database is the hub and repository of all information
gained by all other processes. This central repository allows
individuals with the appropriate access levels, to be able to query,
a single logical location for all relevant information about the
Configuration Item (CI).
Configuration
Management Database – Why have one?
Think of this in terms
of what you currently experience, generally you will have perhaps an
Incident database, a Change database, a Problem database, some asset
management etc, etc. Typically, due to this structure when things
are going wrong you have to look in many locations for information,
which is not “best
practice”.
Now think in terms of
opening an interface to a backend that provides all relevant
information on a CI in your infrastructure, from where it is located
to its current value and any associated support contracts. From all
other incidents that have been recorded to the full release and
change history. From cross referencing to similar CI’s to how the
business is impacted on the failure of this
CI.
This is only the tip
of the proverbial iceberg but I think you are starting to get the
picture. What’s that I hear? Where do I get one? You probably
already have the capability of having one. Many organizations are
already using some elements of Configuration Management, often using
spreadsheets, local databases or paper-based systems.
Configuration
Management Database – Support tools
In today's large and
complex IT infrastructures, Configuration Management requires the
use of support tools, which includes a Configuration Management
Database (CMDB). Physical and electronic libraries are needed along
with the CMDB to hold definitive copies of software and
documentation.
The CMDB should be
based upon database technology that provides flexible and powerful
interrogation facilities.
Automated processes to
load and update the Configuration Management database should be
developed where possible so as to reduce errors and reduce costs.
Discovery tools, inventory and audit tools, enterprise systems and
network management tools can be interfaced to the CMDB. These tools
can be used initially to populate the CMDB, and subsequently to
compare the actual 'live' configuration with the records stored in
the CMDB.
THE ASSET MANAGEMENT TOOLKIT
Each
item included is of the highest quality, tailor made to cover a
different aspect and issue. It includes presentations,
questionnaires, guidelines, fact sheets.... and whole gamut of
material specifically put together to both introduce and take you
through Asset Management.
It comprises the
following components (click
here)
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