Have you automated your inventory? Do you have an automated Configuration Management Database (CMDB), or are you using spreadsheets to manage your agency’s assets? Can you map vulnerabilities to assets with the manual systems that are in place? If not, the ServiceNow CMDB is the answer to your problems. The ServiceNow CMDB is an application that allows an organization to build logical representations of all assets, services running on all identified assets, and the ability to build workflow relationships between all the identified assets.
ServiceNow CMDB is a database that organizes asset and business services, along with organizational maps. CMDB-stored information includes network devices and computers, contracts and licenses for software, and business services which enable Configuration Items (CI). Per ServiceNow, the CI is the fundamental structural management unit of the CMDB, and it serves as the basis for effective communication within your IT department.
The Current Challenge:
Most agencies today are working off of spreadsheets, reports or disparate systems with no centralized hub to manage the assets that belong to them. The spreadsheets and reports are often handled by the IT department, emailed around, not centralized and—in many cases—not shared with a security team. It’s challenging to not know what assets an organization has, who owns those assets and what the dependencies are. When this information is kept in various places, it is even more difficult to update and manage. The end result is not knowing what you don’t know. In other words—if you don’t know what assets you have, how will you know what vulnerabilities those assets might have? How can you effectively manage a security risk to critical systems?
Automation is the Answer:
Automation is important when it comes to managing assets for agencies of any size. The basis for starting the automation process is a CMDB optimized for the tracking of all assets that the agency manages. The automation that these products bring to an organization eliminates human error in missing an incident or vulnerability, and helps protect the organization from potential breaches and shutdowns. Further, automation can streamline an agencies process, freeing up valuable time and money for other projects.
The Benefits of strong CMDB
If your agency is like most organizations, you don’t have much in the way of spare time. We know all of this can look a bit daunting—especially through the lens of a busy schedule—but, when implemented correctly, a strong CMDB is something that can return your investment tenfold.
With its centralized location, process automation and asset management; a strong CMDB is a bit like an immaculately organized office for your operation. You’ll know where everything is whether you need it in a pinch or not.
Conclusions:
If you’re worried about the level of automation you have—or don’t, the old adage applies: the only way out is through. If you’re ready to take the step towards all the great features ServiceNow CMDB has to offer, Cask is here to help. Contact a specialist today with any questions or concerns you may have.
