Which course is better: CMDB Fundamentals or CMDB Fundamentals On Demand?

Community Alums · ‎04-24-2025

Hi all,

I recently completed the "Configure the CMDB" Micro-Certification Simulator (Xanadu). I'm now planning to continue learning and want to know which course is better for building solid CMDB knowledge:

CMDB Fundamentals
CMDB Fundamentals On Demand

Also, what should I learn next to move forward in ITOM (like Discovery, Service Mapping, etc.)?

Thanks in advance!

SuyashJ41731830 · ‎05-21-2025

Hi
@Community Alums
CMDB Fundamentals vs. CMDB Fundamentals On Demand

Feature CMDB Fundamentals (Instructor-Led) CMDB Fundamentals On Demand

Format	Live instructor-led sessions	Self-paced video modules
Best For	Interactive learners, questions live	Flexible schedule, quick learners
Hands-on Labs	Usually included	Included
Certification Prep	Good baseline	Also good
Depth & Coverage	Same curriculum	Same curriculum
Time Commitment	Scheduled sessions	Self-paced

Recommendation:

If you're self-motivated and prefer flexibility, go with:
CMDB Fundamentals On Demand

If you prefer live guidance, interaction, and Q&A, go with:
CMDB Fundamentals (Instructor-Led)

Both cover the same core topics, including:

CMDB concepts
CI Classes and Relationships
Identification and Reconciliation
CMDB Health
CI Lifecycle Management

What to Learn Next in ITOM Path:

Once your CMDB foundation is solid, here’s a clear progression:

1. Discovery Fundamentals

Learn how ServiceNow Discovery populates the CMDB.
Covers MID Server, patterns, credentials, schedules, and troubleshooting.
Prerequisite for more advanced ITOM modules.

Recommended Course: Discovery Fundamentals (On Demand or Instructor-Led)
Available via Now Learning.

2. Service Mapping Fundamentals

Learn how to map applications and services to infrastructure.
Key for Application Services, Impact Analysis, and CMDB accuracy.

Recommended Course: Service Mapping Fundamentals

3. Event Management Fundamentals

Brings in events from monitoring tools and correlates to CI data.
Integrates well with Discovery and CMDB.

4. Cloud Management / Orchestration

If you’re moving toward hybrid/cloud environments.

Suggested Learning Path (ServiceNow ITOM)

CMDB Fundamentals
Discovery Fundamentals
Service Mapping Fundamentals
Event Management Fundamentals
Take relevant micro-certifications for each (Discovery, Service Mapping, Event Mgmt)
ITOM Specialist Certifications (once ready)

View solution in original post

Dr Atul G- LNG · ‎04-24-2025

Hi @Community Alums

To me, both seem similar, and I think the demand is good. However, before making a decision, please check the course agenda for both courses. Additionally, I will also gain knowledge about CSDM, which will be helpful in ITOM as well

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J Siva · ‎04-24-2025

Hi @Community Alums
PFB the article which gives you some idea on the learning path.
https://www.servicenow.com/community/itom-articles/recommended-training-for-itom/ta-p/2683564

Regards,
Siva

Robert H · ‎04-25-2025

Hello @Community Alums ,

Both are about the same topic. One is live and instructor-led, the other is on demand and self paced. What to choose depends on your personal preference.

ServiceNow has actually created a mini course on the subject of choosing between the two.

See @J Siva 's response for an answer to your second question.

Regards,

Robert

stevenswink · ‎05-21-2025

As mentioned previously, you should definitely invest in learning CSDM as well. It continues to evolve into a fundamental underpinning across several offerings (ITOM, ITAM, CMDB, and ITSM to name a few).