Application performance monitoring tools: An introduction
Within the overarching technology industry and software architecture, Application Performance Monitoring (APM) has emerged as an important part of the IT ecosystem.
Businesses are looking to ensure their applications are running smoothly and efficiently, keeping their digital performance high and their operation on track.
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With the digital landscape evolving at a seemingly unrelenting pace, buyers and users within the APM industry remain ever more focused on remaining well-informed.
Put simply, this can help organisations to make astute, timely, and propitious decisions when selecting their application performance monitoring software
This guide is tailored to assist those in industries reliant on robust APM solutions, such as finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and any business where digital services are critical.
Understanding the evolving APM landscape
Before taking an in-depth look into the selection process, it is crucial to comprehend the APM landscape, where it stands, how, and at what speed it is developing.
Application Performance Monitoring is a complicated field that encompasses a wide range of digital tools and solutions.
These application performance monitoring tools are designed to track, measure, and manage the performance of software applications within and across companies and organisations.
The right APM solution can provide invaluable insights into application behaviour, user experiences, and system bottlenecks, enabling businesses to optimise performance and maintain a competitive edge.
Key considerations for application performance management and monitoring
When searching for an APM supplier, there are several factors to consider.
Each represents an important component of application performance monitoring suites.
Comprehensive coverage
Ensure the APM solution offers extensive monitoring capabilities across your entire technology stack, from front-end to back-end components.
Real-time application performance monitoring analytics
Look for tools that provide real-time performance data, allowing for immediate detection and resolution of issues.
APM integration and compatibility
The APM software should seamlessly integrate with your existing infrastructure and support a wide range of applications and environments.
Scalability of application performance monitoring tools
As your business grows, your APM solution should be able to scale accordingly without compromising performance.
User experience within APM
A robust APM tool will include features to monitor and enhance the end-user experience.
It is essential to consider usability and also to factor in the different people who will be using the system, what they are using it for, and the various necessary capabilities.
Customisation and flexibility
The ability to customise dashboards and alerts to fit your specific needs is essential for effective monitoring.
Application performance monitoring tools support and services
Evaluate the level of support and additional services offered by the supplier, including training, consulting, and technical assistance.
Leading APM systems and solutions
When considering APM tools, there is a profusion of specific systems or solutions to explore.
Each will offer different benefits, capabilities, technical acumen, and overall performance, so due diligence is advised before buying.
- Dynatrace
- New Relic
- AppDynamics
- Datadog
- Splunk
- SolarWinds
- LogicMonitor
- ManageEngine Applications Manager
- Riverbed SteelCentral
- Broadcom DX Application Performance Management
- Microsoft Azure Monitor
- Google Cloud’s operations suite (formerly Stackdriver)
- IBM Cloud APM
- Instana
- Elastic APM
Latest technological advancements in application performance monitoring
As with any IT-related sector, the APM industry is continuously evolving, with technological advancements enhancing the capabilities of monitoring tools.
Some of the latest innovations include, but are not limited to:
Artificial intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps)
Integrating AI to automate and improve IT operations.
This helps provide predictive analytics and proactive issue resolution information, streamlining each process quickly.
Distributed tracing
Advanced tracing techniques that provide insights into the performance of microservices-based architectures.
Cloud-native monitoring
Solutions designed specifically for monitoring applications in cloud environments, including Kubernetes and serverless architectures.
Professionals who benefit: application performance monitoring Buyer’s Guide
Our Buyer’s Guide is valuable for IT managers, DevOps teams, CTOs, and anyone involved in the procurement of APM solutions.
It serves as a roadmap for businesses that rely on high-performing applications to drive their operations and customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
Selecting the right Application Performance Monitoring supplier is a critical decision that can significantly impact your business’s success.
By considering the factors outlined in this guide and exploring the listed APM systems and solutions, you can make an informed decision.
Selection of application performance monitoring tools, when done with the use of this guide, will help you ensure that your choice aligns with your business needs and includes awareness of the latest technological advancements.
References
- Dynatrace: https://www.dynatrace.com/
- New Relic: https://newrelic.com/
- AppDynamics: https://www.appdynamics.com/
- Datadog: https://www.datadoghq.com/
- Splunk: https://www.splunk.com/
For brevity, not all URLs are listed, but each listed solution can be researched further online
By keeping these considerations in mind and staying informed about the latest developments in APM technology, you can make a well-informed decision that will bolster your application’s performance and your business’s bottom line.
