How Automated are You? 5 Best Practices for Utilizing ServiceNow Applications in a Unified Workflow
Modern technology is designed to address the needs of customers efficiently and with purpose. What we’re seeing today, however, is that many enterprise organizations are deploying isolated point solutions, applications and processes to tackle individual needs. This approach has led to complex and bloated IT infrastructures that are labor-intensive, inefficient and expensive. Course correcting requires automation and integration, and while many organizations have made some sort of progress on this front, many still want more.
This dynamic begs the question: How automated are you? If you’re a ServiceNow customer, you’re on the right path. And staying there requires more than just implementing individual applications—it also entails integrating them into a unified workflow. To help in this endeavor, this blog post explores five best practices for leveraging ServiceNow’s suite of applications in a unified workflow to drive organizational efficiency and operational excellence.
1. Establish an Integration Framework
To ensure seamless collaboration between ServiceNow modules, organizations must establish a robust integration framework. ServiceNow offers powerful tools, such as Integration Hub and Integration Hub Spokes, to facilitate this process. For example, integrating Innovation Management with Project Portfolio Management allows organizations to seamlessly transition innovative ideas into actionable projects. Technical components involved in this integration include APIs, webhooks and integration connectors, which enable data exchange and workflow automation across different modules.
2. Configure Automated Workflows
Automated workflows play a crucial role in streamlining processes and reducing manual effort. ServiceNow’s Flow Designer empowers organizations to configure automated workflows tailored to their specific needs. For instance, automating demand intake and prioritization ensures that high-priority requests are addressed promptly, improving overall efficiency. Technical components, such as flow triggers, actions and conditions, enable organizations to automate repetitive tasks and streamline their workflows effectively.
3. Develop Clear Governance Structures
Clear governance structures are essential for ensuring consistency and compliance across ServiceNow applications. ServiceNow’s Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) module provides organizations with the tools they need to establish governance policies and enforce them consistently. For example, implementing data access controls and change management processes ensures that sensitive information is protected and changes are managed appropriately. Technical components, such as role-based access controls (RBAC), workflow approvals and audit trails, help organizations maintain compliance and mitigate risks effectively.
4. Implement Standardized Reporting Mechanisms
Standardized reporting mechanisms provide visibility and insights into organizational performance. ServiceNow’s Performance Analytics enables organizations to create dashboards and reports that provide real-time insights into key metrics. For instance, portfolio health dashboards offer a comprehensive view of project portfolios, allowing organizations to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions. Technical components, such as data sources, metrics and visualization tools, enable organizations to create customized reports that meet their specific reporting needs.
5. Ensure Continuous Optimization
Continuous optimization empowers organizations to adapt to changing business requirements and technology advancements. ServiceNow’s Continuous Improvement Management provides organizations with the framework they need to track and prioritize optimization efforts. For example, implementing process automation enhancements and application customizations ensures that workflows remain efficient and aligned with business objectives. Technical components, such as change management processes, version control and testing methodologies, enable organizations to implement optimization initiatives seamlessly.
Maximizing ROI and Optimizing Operations
Effective utilization of ServiceNow applications in a unified workflow is key to driving organizational efficiency and effectiveness. By establishing integration frameworks, configuring automated workflows, establishing clear governance structures, implementing standardized reporting mechanisms and ensuring continuous optimization, organizations can maximize the value of their ServiceNow investment.
Navisite’s, part of Acccenture, expertise and guidance can help organizations implement these best practices effectively and achieve their business objectives. If you’re ready to take the next step and maximize the efficiency of your ServiceNow deployment, you can learn more about Navisite’s ServiceNow services here—and discover how the right partner can support all areas of your ServiceNow environment.