Effectiveness of Configuration Management Database Discovery and Migration in Organisational Environment

Efecan Kanat

Master's thesis

Abstract:

This thesis focuses on extending Configuration Management Database (CMDB) systems within organizational information systems by incorporating cloud sources and leveraging ServiceNow Discovery and Software Asset Management (SAM). The implementation of a MID Server is highlighted as a critical step in developing the thesis. The study emphasizes the importance of using discovery tools to register server information as Configuration Item (CI) records, allowing for the establishment of software relationships in a system-based manner. Integration of the discovery tool with SAM improves software asset management, but compatibility requires normalization. The automated solution considers software changes over time, ensuring accuracy and compliance. The practical component demonstrates the tangible benefits of a well-implemented CMDB system, such as improved data accuracy, compliance, risk mitigation, and strategic decision-making support. The thesis successfully bridges theoretical and practical aspects, providing comprehensive insights from software record entry to CMDB and significantly contributing to the field. Future research should be conducted to investigate the impact of emerging technologies on CMDB management, particularly in dynamic environments. Overall, the study is useful for organizations looking to improve IT Operations Management through effective CMDB implementation and software management operations.

Abstract:

This thesis focuses on extending Configuration Management Database (CMDB) systems within organizational information systems by incorporating cloud sources and leveraging ServiceNow Discovery and Software Asset Management (SAM). The implementation of a MID Server is highlighted as a critical step in developing the thesis. The study emphasizes the importance of using discovery tools to register server information as Configuration Item (CI) records, allowing for the establishment of software relationships in a system-based manner. Integration of the discovery tool with SAM improves software asset management, but compatibility requires normalization. The automated solution considers software changes over time, ensuring accuracy and compliance. The practical component demonstrates the tangible benefits of a well-implemented CMDB system, such as improved data accuracy, compliance, risk mitigation, and strategic decision-making support. The thesis successfully bridges theoretical and practical aspects, providing comprehensive insights from software record entry to CMDB and significantly contributing to the field. Future research should be conducted to investigate the impact of emerging technologies on CMDB management, particularly in dynamic environments. Overall, the study is useful for organizations looking to improve IT Operations Management through effective CMDB implementation and software management operations.

Keywords

System Management, Cloud Platform, Configuration Item, IT Infrastructure, CMDB, ITIL, Software Asset Management

Keywords

System Management, IT Infrastructure, Cloud Platform, CMDB, Configuration Item, ITIL, Software Asset Management

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 4. 12. 2023

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 29. 1. 2024
• Supervisor: František Sudzina
• Reader: Antonín Pavlíček

Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze

Master programme:
Information Systems Management