CMDB Strategy and Design

The Configuration Management Database (CMDB) and Configuration Management System (CMS) underpin all other IT Service Management processes. Their successful implementation is often seen as one of the marks of a ‘mature’ process implementation.

A successful CMDB implementation rests on the fact that the tool strategy, purpose, and scope are carefully considered and recognised as vital inputs into the tool selection process. Pink Elephant can offer support in this vital area with our CMDB Strategy and Design Workshop. 

Approach to Pink Elephant’s CMDB Implementation

1. Documentation review: before the CMDB workshop, we will review your existing asset and configuration-related documentation to understand how your processes are defined, standardised, and repeatable across your organisation. 
2. CMDB Workshop: we conduct an engaging two-day workshop with your team to provide: 

• An understanding of what is a CMDB and why it is important to ITSM, including the integrated use of the CMDB to support ITSM processes.
• A structured approach to starting your CMDB/CMS implementation project with high level guidance on the activities that should occur within each phase.
• Guidance on selecting an appropriate scope of configuration items for inclusion within the CMDB/CMS.
• Guidance on selecting the attributes to be included within the CMDB/CMS.
• Guidance on selecting the relationships to be included within the CMDB/CMS.
• Guidance on which tool capabilities are required to support an ITIL aligned CMDB/CMS.
• Practitioner level understanding of the SACM process.
• An understanding of the implication of ITSM tools and systems in support of the CMDB and integration of the CMDB with ITSM processes.

3. Implementation Roadmap: after the workshop, you will receive an implementation roadmap with actionable steps to successfully maintain and further enhance your overall CMDB.
4. Mentoring & Coaching: The Pink Elephant consultant will provide support in an on-going capacity as a subject matter expert.  The role of the consultant is to ensure that any agreed activities have occurred and offer further guidance and advice to your team via regular meetings and workshops. 

Pink Elephant CMDB Workshop Deliverables

1. An understanding of the principles of a CI, CI attribute definition and an appropriate CMDB design. 
2. An understanding of the role the SACM process plays in the management of the CMDB. 
3. Application of the CMDB design principles to begin evolution of your CMDB model. 
4. Scope and Strategy document containing: 

• 1-2 Mapped services as architectural diagrams. 
• Indication of effort required to map all services within the CMDB. 

Four Pink Elephant CMDB Workshop Benefits

• Clear Understanding and Alignment: the workshop ensures all stakeholders have a clear and shared understanding of the goals, scope, and benefits of the CMDB and aligns the CMDB strategy with the overall business objectives and IT strategy.
• Expert Guidance and Best Practices: our subject matter experts will help to identify and avoid common pitfalls and challenges associated with CMDB design, implementation and management.
• Blueprint for Implementation: the roadmap and actionable plan for CMDB implementation, including phases, key activities, and deliverables and clarifies roles and responsibilities, ensuring accountability and effective project management.
• Enhanced Collaboration and Buy-in: key stakeholders from various departments are involved, fostering collaboration and ensuring their needs (and concerns) are addressed.

The workshop also enhances buy-in from senior management and other stakeholders by demonstrating the value and strategic importance of the CMDB.