Understanding ITSM frameworks

This recipe provides a summary analysis of the IT Service Management (ITSM) frameworks in general and what they mean to each organization.

Getting ready

A general understanding of the objectives of standards and frameworks is required for this recipe.

How to do it...

Plan to invest in one or more of the following:

• Buy this book
• Research the subject of frameworks using your preferred method of learning
• Attend an accredited training course in the subject
• Adopt and adapt frameworks to your specific organization needs, strategies, and capabilities

How it works...

IT Service Management is a broad term used to describe a process-focused approach to IT management. The goal for most organizations is to implement a service-focused approach to delivering IT dependent services to the end customer.

The industry standard approach for achieving the ITSM objective is to use best-in-class standards as a guide. Examples of common industry frameworks include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL©)
• Microsoft Operations Framework (MOF)
• Core Practices

Frameworks are guides and can be compared to the rules of a game (for example, soccer). In a game, the rules provide a consistent approach but do not limit the individual or team strategy. Another critical factor is individual creativity, which, when championed, often leads to a strategic advantage.

ITSM frameworks work best for organizations when the adoption is personalized to the organizations specific strategies and internal capabilities.