What is the ServiceNow Discovery module?

The ServiceNow Discovery module is a powerful feature within the ServiceNow platform designed to automatically discover and map the configuration items (CIs) in an organization's IT infrastructure. It helps organizations maintain an accurate and up-to-date configuration management database (CMDB), which is a centralized repository that stores information about all IT assets and their relationships.

Key features and functionalities of the ServiceNow Discovery module include:

1. Automated Discovery:

   • ServiceNow Discovery automatically identifies and records information about servers, network devices, databases, applications, and other configuration items in your IT environment. This automated process helps in maintaining an accurate and comprehensive view of the IT landscape.

2. Classification and Identification:

   • The module classifies and identifies various configuration items, assigning them specific attributes and relationships. This includes understanding the dependencies and connections between different components.

3. Multi-Cloud and Hybrid Environment Support:

   • ServiceNow Discovery supports discovery in multi-cloud and hybrid IT environments. It can identify and capture information about resources and services across on-premises data centers, public clouds, and other infrastructure components.

4. Integration with CMDB:

   • The information gathered by the Discovery module is automatically populated into the Configuration Management Database (CMDB) within ServiceNow. This integration ensures that the CMDB remains accurate and reflects the current state of the IT infrastructure.

5. Service Mapping:

   • ServiceNow Discovery is often used in conjunction with Service Mapping. Service Mapping extends the discovery capabilities by mapping relationships between CIs to understand how they collectively contribute to delivering IT services.

6. Scheduled and Continuous Discovery:

   • Discovery can be configured to run on a scheduled basis to keep the CMDB up to date. Additionally, continuous discovery ensures that changes in the infrastructure are promptly identified and reflected in the CMDB.

7. Pattern-Based Identification:

   • The module uses pattern-based identification techniques to recognize and categorize different types of configuration items. Patterns are pre-configured rules that guide the discovery process.

8. Data Enrichment and Normalization:

   • Discovered data goes through enrichment and normalization processes to ensure consistency and accuracy. This involves standardizing data formats and enriching information with additional details.

9. Security and Compliance:

   • Discovery includes security measures to ensure that sensitive information is handled appropriately. It also supports compliance initiatives by providing visibility into the configuration of IT assets.

ServiceNow Discovery is particularly valuable for organizations with complex and dynamic IT infrastructures, as it helps automate the often challenging task of maintaining an accurate and complete understanding of the configuration items that make up the IT environment.