Introduction
The following is a list of frequently asked questions that we see often. Feel free to add any questions you would like added below.
FAQ
1. What is the different between ITSM base asset and HAM?
2. What is the difference between Asset Inventory and Configuration Management?
Asset management and CMDB (Configuration Management Database) have a closely linked relationship, particularly in the context of IT and business operations.
Asset Management involves tracking and managing the lifecycle of assets (hardware, software, licenses, etc.) within the organization. It focuses on the financial, contractual, and inventory aspects of assets.
CMDB focuses on configuration items (CIs) that contribute to the delivery of IT services. A CI can be anything from a server to a network switch, and the CMDB stores information and their relationships and dependencies.
3. What types of hardware assets can be managed in ServiceNow HAM?
- ServiceNow HAM can manage a wide range of hardware assets, including:
- End-user devices: laptops, desktops, tablets, smartphones.
- Network and telecom hardware: routers, switches, load balancers.
- Data center equipment: servers, storage devices, security appliances.
- Peripherals: printers, scanners, monitors, keyboards.
4. How does ServiceNow HAM manage the full lifecycle of hardware assets?
- ServiceNow HAM manages the full lifecycle of hardware assets through:
- Procurement: Facilitating purchase orders and vendor management.
- Receiving: Logging and tagging assets upon arrival.
- Deployment: Assigning assets to users or locations.
- Maintenance: Scheduling regular maintenance and tracking repairs.
- Retirement: Decommissioning and disposing of assets securely. Automated workflows and tasks simplify each stage, ensuring efficient management
5. What role does HAM play in compliance management for hardware assets?
- HAM supports compliance management by:
- Enforcing policies related to asset usage, maintenance, and disposal.
- Maintaining audit trails and documentation for regulatory adherence.
- Providing reports to identify and address compliance risks. This ensures that hardware asset management aligns with organizational and legal standards.
6. Where do I find the Ask a Ranger: Hardware Asset Management Series?
ServiceNow Community YouTube Channel
7. What functionality is lost when excluding an asset from HAM features?
- The asset loses all HAM Pro functionality and reverts to core Asset Management features. However, model normalization still applies because exclusion is at the asset level, not the model level.
8. Can I create ad-hoc tasks tied to an asset, like for cleanup or validation?
- While asset tasks don't support ad-hoc creation natively, you can use Flow Designer to create custom tasks and workflows linked to asset records. Alternatively, use audits or stock rules to proactively manage these scenario
