Identify Application Properties

Summary

The purpose of this APM process step is to determine the base set of asset data to collect that enables a complete analysis of the targeted asset scope and enable a successful APM program. 

Asset Inventory Data Types

The key to identifying the “right” property meta-data is to temper the initial temptation to collect every available data element with that which is needed to address specific objectives of the APM initiative. 

To assist in managing the scope of the data inventory, Planview Enterprise PRISMS suggests data be grouped into five broad categories: General Properties, and four Key Performance Dimensions (KPDs): Technical Value, Business Value, Cost, and Risk.  Each of these categories is further discussed in this best practice. 

Be aware that not all of the listed meta-data elements offered for each category need be included to have an effective analysis.  This is particularly important to consider when performing the initial inventory, which is often intended as a short duration, high ROI exercise to test the process and prove value.  While additional attributes can (and likely will) be added with subsequent inventory cycles to increase the sophistication and accuracy of analytics, effective initial assessment results can be obtained with surprisingly few data elements in each category to identify the “low hanging fruit.”  Continually question how gathering data for a particular asset property will specifically promote practical APM analysis.