A Step-by-Step Process for a Successful ServiceNow Implementation

With its ability to define, deliver, and analyze services seamlessly, ServiceNow has become vital for worldwide businesses. Around 80 percent of Fortune 500 companies leverage ServiceNow to transform their business processes. However, you need a solid implementation strategy to truly harness its potential.

With an effective ServiceNow implementation roadmap, you can get the most value from the platform regardless of the growth and demands of your business. That’s why we’re here to guide you through a successful ServiceNow implementation process.

ServiceNow Implementation Process

For any implementation, there should be a balance of technology, processes, and people. ServiceNow platform implementation means changing the way people work, so it requires a great vision, practical strategy, and of course, after-implementation monitoring and improvements. Here is a step-by-step guide to execute successful ServiceNow implementation.

Step 1:Craft a Roadmap Based on Business Objectives

Before you start the ServiceNow implementation plan, you must be familiar with your business objectives and desired outcomes. Therefore, a detailed implementation roadmap that outlines both short-term and long-term goals is essential. When creating such a road map ask yourself:

• What is your vision?
• What challenges do you aim to address with this implementation?
• What are the quantifiable key metrics of success?

These questions help clarify what you want to achieve with ServiceNow. Understanding your goals and the improvements you expect can lead to a better evaluation of the results. Key performance indicators (KPIs) can also be used to determine if you’re on the right track.

In addition, transparency in managing sponsors, stakeholders, and partners should be one of the main components of your plan. This inclusive and open approach will lead to organizational alignment and lead to a seamless implementation.

Step 2: Mapping Your Strategy to Success

A great vision is important, but if your strategy is not practical, your vision is going to fail. So, ServiceNow implementation project plan must be backed by a practical strategy that specifies the responsibilities and strategic value that ServiceNow is anticipated to provide.

But how do you know if your strategy is great?

Asking yourself these 3 questions will help:

What To Know?

Here are a few things you must know about your business before starting ServiceNow implementation:

• What the user or customer experience should look like?
• Does your budget afford ServiceNow pricing?
• How capable is your team?

What to Include?

CMDB (Configuration Management Database) is the backbone of your When you’re building and organizing your CMDB, it’s essential to focus on what’s important for your business, rather than trying to include everything possible.

Instead of trying to list every single detail, think about what’s relevant to your business goals and objectives for digital transformation.

Ask yourself questions like:

• What configuration items do you need to keep track of the process?
• What capability data do you require for core identifiers, controls, and context?

What to Remember?

After you answer these questions and start implementation, keep these things in mind:

• Build your implementation plan around the results you expect to achieve.
• Identify and fix any gaps between your current state and where you want to be.
• Align your business needs with ServiceNow’s capabilities.
• Create a phased implementation strategy that prioritizes high-importance tasks.
• Continuously monitor and track changes to stay on course.

Step 3: Post-Implementation Improvements

No matter how flawless a plan seems, real-world application can possibly leave some areas for improvement. The same goes for ServiceNow implementation. After multiple ServiceNow implementations, you will likely identify areas that could be better.

For example, the increasing maintenance cost and feature upgrade issues may force you to skip customization.

Perhaps the self-service portal isn’t as user-friendly as anticipated, or the ServiceNow integration with other systems is causing delays.

So when you recognize these issues, you can continuously refine and expand your ServiceNow implementation.

Step 4: Finding a ServiceNow Retainer Team

For both new and existing ServiceNow customers, employing a quickly deployable retainer team can be the solution to meet deadlines and budget constraints. Such teams boast skilled professionals who not only provide quality work but are also affordable.

ServiceNow Retainer Team Composition

The right retainer team should have a diverse group of skilled professionals who can handle different roles and complete the project effectively.

Here are some key roles to consider:

• Certified and Experienced Developers
• Onshore Engagement Manager
• Field Service Manager
• Technical Project Manager
• Strategic Portfolio Manager
• Implementation Specialist
• Quality Assurance Tester
• Engagement Manager
• Process Consultant

FAQs

What is a ServiceNow implementation?

ServiceNow Implementation is based on your business objectives. It involves setting up workflows, integrating systems, and managing user roles. Besides, the ServiceNow migration from the existing workflow is carefully executed.

What are the 3 main parts of ServiceNow?

ServiceNow is divided into three main parts; these are

1. IT Service Management (ITSM)
2. IT Operations Management (ITOM)
3. Customer Service Management (CSM)

What are the fundamentals of ServiceNow implementation methodology?

ServiceNow implementation methodology is based on a carefully formulated roadmap. The components of this roadmap should be defining goals, devising plans, and laying the groundwork for successful implementation. By focusing on these key elements, organizations can effectively deploy ServiceNow to meet their specific needs.

What are the phases of ServiceNow implementation?

ServiceNow implementation begins with the preparation, discovery, and design. Once you successfully pass these phases, you have to proceed with building, testing, and deployment. The post-implementation support is also vital.

How long does a ServiceNow implementation take?

If an organization has undergone ITSM transformation and follows best practices, a typical ServiceNow implementation can take 8-12 weeks. Alternatively, if best practices haven’t been established, it may take longer to build the ITSM foundation. However, the exact time may vary based on your project scope and complexity.

Final Words

ServiceNow implementation is a must-have for organizations seeking to modernize their operations and enhance efficiency. By following a structured approach, leveraging best practices, and fostering collaboration between stakeholders, businesses can navigate the implementation process successfully and unlock the full capabilities of the ServiceNow platform.

If you want seamless IT support for your ServiceNow implementation, IT service Mobiz will help you in your business transformation.