Top Features of CSDM 5: What You Need to Know

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The Common Service Data Model (CSDM) 5 is a foundational framework for standardizing service-related definitions and data modeling within the ServiceNow AI Platform. This white paper provides best practices for aligning your ServiceNow implementation with CSDM to maximize value across IT and business processes. Below are the key takeaways from the document.

1. What is CSDM 5?

CSDM 5 is an evolutionary update to the data model, introducing new domains, expanded product modeling, and enhanced guidance for digital transformation. Key highlights include:

• New Ideation & Strategy Domain – Captures ideas, goals, and strategic priorities.
• Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) – Tracks software components for security and compliance.
• Service Instance Expansion – Beyond Application Services, now includes Data, Network, Facility, and Operational Process Service Instances.
• AI & GenAI Integration – New AI System Digital Assets and AI Model classes support AI governance.

CSDM is not a product but a framework that ensures consistency across ServiceNow products like ITSM, ITOM, SPM, and CSM.

2. CSDM 5 Domains & Life Cycle

CSDM 5 organizes data into seven domains, supporting an end-to-end service life cycle:

Domain	Purpose	Key Tables
Foundation	Core referential data (locations, groups, product models)	cmdb_model, cmn_location, cmdb_group
Ideation & Strategy	Strategic planning, goals, and product ideas	sn_align_core_product_idea, sn_gf_goal
Design & Planning	Enterprise architecture & business capabilities	cmdb_ci_business_app, cmdb_ci_business_capability
Build & Integration	DevOps, SDLC components, AI digital assets	cmdb_ci_sdlc_component, dm_ai_system_digital_asset
Service Delivery	Operational services (Application, Network, Data Services)	cmdb_ci_service_auto, cmdb_ci_network_service_instance
Service Consumption	Business services & offerings	cmdb_ci_service_business, service_offering
Manage Portfolio	Service & product portfolio management	service_portfolio

The CSDM Life Cycle ensures alignment from Ideation → Design → Build → Delivery → Consumption.

3. Key Enhancements in CSDM 5

• Service Instance Types – Now includes:
• Data Service Instance (AI/ML models, databases)
• Network Service Instance (logical network services)
• Facility Service Instance (building operations)
• Operational Process Service Instance (manufacturing/utility workflows)
• Dynamic CI Groups – Replaces manual CI groupings with query-based automation.
• Life Cycle Management – Standardized stages (Ideation, Operational, End of Life) for better governance.

4. Why Adopt CSDM?

• Standardized Reporting – Ensures consistent analytics across ServiceNow products.
• Future-Proofing – New ServiceNow features rely on CSDM-aligned data.
• Reduced Technical Debt – Avoids custom data models that limit functionality.
• Better AI & Automation – Structured data improves AI-driven workflows.

5. How to Implement CSDM 5 (Crawl → Walk → Run → Fly Approach)

1. Foundation Stage – Set up core data (locations, groups, product models).
2. Crawl Stage – Focus on Business Applications & Application Services.
3. Walk Stage – Implement Technology Management Services & Dynamic CI Groups.
4. Run Stage – Connect Business Services to technical offerings.
5. Fly Stage – Expand with Business Capabilities, Information Objects, and AI governance.

Final Thoughts

CSDM 5 is the backbone of digital transformation on the ServiceNow platform. By aligning with CSDM, organizations gain better visibility, automation, and AI-driven insights across IT and business services.