ABSTRACT
In previous chapters, we discussed measuring IT performance and the value of collecting, analyzing, and reporting on data that would allow IT Providers to make comparisons to industry performance data. In this chapter, we explore how we can use some of this same data and performance information for the purposes of improving IT performance. Measurement is going to play a key role. After a brief discussion on best software practices we examine how IT Providers can identify opportunities to maximize their performance and improve productivity and quality. At the end of this chapter, we introduce a technique referred to as “performance modeling.” Performance modeling positions IT Providers to maximize the performance of their current practices to gain insights into what is working well and where their weaknesses exist.
