Manage Virtual CI / Asset In stock room

[sureshloganath1]

Hi Team, 

I am exploring a scenario regarding the management of virtual network configuration items (CIs) within the ServiceNow stock room. Are there any existing possibilities for managing virtual CIs or assets in the ServiceNow stock management system? Additionally, are there any use cases that demonstrate the management of virtual CIs or assets in the stock room? Your insights would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

Suresh

[HIROSHI SATOH]

In ServiceNow, managing virtual network configuration items (CIs) within the stock room can be a bit complex since virtual CIs don't have a physical presence like traditional assets. However, there are several possibilities and use cases to consider:

1. Stock Management of Virtual CIs:

   • Custom Fields: You can create custom fields in the stock management module to track virtual CIs. These fields can include details such as the type of virtual resource, usage, or associated licenses.
   • Asset Management Module: Although designed for physical assets, you can use the Asset Management module to track virtual CIs by defining them as non-tangible assets. This approach allows you to manage inventory, assign CIs to different locations (including stock rooms), and track their lifecycle.
   • CMDB Integration: Virtual CIs can be managed in the CMDB, and you can create relationships between these CIs and stock rooms. This helps in tracking which virtual CIs are currently "assigned" or "unassigned" and could be considered as in stock.

2. Use Cases:

   • License Management: Virtual CIs often come with associated licenses (e.g., virtual machines, software applications). Managing these licenses as assets in the stock room can ensure compliance and optimize usage.
   • Cloud Resource Management: If your organization uses cloud-based services, you can track virtual resources (like virtual machines or containers) as virtual CIs. These can be managed in the stock room when not in use, much like physical assets.
   • Disaster Recovery: In a disaster recovery scenario, virtual CIs in the stock room can be quickly allocated to replace lost or damaged resources, providing continuity for critical services.