Create structure. Enable control.
A CMDB is only as good as its design.
It is not the volume of data that determines success, but its structure, consistency and usability.
In many organisations, the CMDB has grown organically over time:
different modelling approaches, inconsistent relationships and a lack of governance mean that, although the data exists, it is virtually unusable.
The result:
- Lack of transparency regarding services and dependencies
- Low acceptance within the organisation
- Limited use for ITSM, ITOM or CSM
- High maintenance costs with little added value
This is exactly where we come in.
Our approach: design before filling
We do not view the CMDB as a data repository, but rather as a central management tool for your IT.
That is why we deliberately focus on:
structure, clarity and governance – before any data is even exchanged.
CSDM as a strategic organising principle
With the Common Service Data Model (CSDM), we create a clear, standardised foundation for your service structures:
- Clear definition of business services and technical services
- Clear separation and integration of levels
- Transparent relationships and dependencies
The aim is to create a structure that is not only ‘correct’, but also understandable and usable for everyone involved.
Service structures that really work
A good CMDB starts with the right question:
How are your services structured logically – and how should they be?
We work with you to develop:
- Clear service hierarchies
- Appropriate granularity rather than unnecessary detail
- Structures that are sound from both a business and technical perspective
The result: a CMDB that provides clarity – rather than creating complexity.
CMDB Governance – the key to sustainability
Without clear governance, any CMDB will eventually lose quality over time.
That is why we establish:
- Clear roles and responsibilities (e.g. data owner, service owner)
- Defined maintenance and quality processes
- Standards for modelling and further development
This ensures that your CMDB remains stable, consistent and usable in the long term.
Common challenges – and how we tackle them
Many CMDB initiatives fail not because of technical issues, but because of a lack of structure:
- Data models that are too detailed or unclear
- A lack of coordination between business departments and IT
- Inconsistent use of CSDM
- No sustainable governance
Our approach provides clarity:
- Analysis & Structuring
We provide clarity on existing models and identify weaknesses - Vision & Design
We develop a clear, future-proof service and data structure - Establishing Governance
We define responsibilities and rules to ensure sustainable use - Step-by-Step Implementation
We bring structure to existing systems – without introducing unnecessary complexity
The added value for your organisation
A well-thought-out CMDB & CSDM strategy is the foundation for successful ServiceNow® initiatives:
- A clear overview of services and their dependencies
- Higher data quality and reduced maintenance effort
- Better decision-making support for IT and business
- Seamless support for ITSM, ITOM and CSM
- A scalable foundation for future developments
Why exantra
We combine methodological know-how, ServiceNow® expertise and project experience to build CMDBs and CSDMs that are not only technically correctbut also strategically meaningful.
Our focus is on creating structures that work in practice – and stand the test of time.
exantra – structure that makes your IT manageable.