Application performance management software is a series of specialized software tools created to manage the performance of applications provided over a network to multiple users. This type of software is used in large companies running multiple software applications across a network for a large number of simultaneous users.

When purchasing any software package for multiple users, there is an estimate of the hardware and resources required to run the software for a certain number of end users. Application performance management software is used to ensure that these minimal requirements are met and to try and optimize the software and equipment for extra efficiency and cost savings.

1. Research application performance management software.

2. Find application performance management software for your needs.

3. Create an application performance management software provider directory.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Identify the function of application performance management software

Web based application performance management software can be used with certain types of software applications. The applications must be built with J2EE or Microsoft's .Net tools. Using these platforms, application performance management software can record and rate the speed of the system responses,identify performance issues and pinpoint the cause.

I recommend: Quest Software is well known for their application performance management tool, designed to work with J2EE and Microsoft's .Net. Knoa Software specializes in providing expertise and application performance management software information for enterprise based systems, such as SAP or Peoplesoft.

Examine your application performance software requirements

Make a list of all your software applications that are accessible by multiple users over a network or the Internet. Identify the platform they are programmed in to determine the type of application performance software that you will require. Separate the software into web-based applications and win32 'fat' clients, such as SAP.

I recommend: Once you have a clear list of your requirements, it is time to meet with your internal information technology staff or firm. Discuss the plan, and identify any additional requirements. Review the list of application performance software providers to find companies that can meet your needs using Capterra or the Search Software websites.

List relevant application performance management software providers

To create an application performance management software list, it is best to contact an IT consulting company that specializes in application performance management software. These tools are specialized and always require professional expertise to install, configure and customize to your unique environment.

I recommend: IT consulting firms, such as NetQOS, provide both expert consulting services and implementation assistance. When soliciting advice from consulting firms, it is always wise to get at least two independent opinions. Visit Tidal Software for a demo, to contact a sales rep, request consulting services or to subscribe to news and product updates.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Implementing application performance management software is a big investment, but necessary to ensure the greatest ROI for the software investment and staff time across the organization.