With virtualization and cloud computing, applications are more difficult to manage because the underlying layers of IT infrastructure are masked. OpTier BTM introduces a new approach to managing applications in complex computing environments, proving essential visibility and control over transaction paths through the different physical and virtual IT infrastructure tiers. OpTier BTM identifies infrastructure performance problems as well as end-user service level degradations, and puts the technical issues into the correct business context.
For example, an intensive computing task in a virtualized grid infrastructure typically spans multiple nodes, each performing a different part of the task. This division provides flexible allocation of computing resources and the ability to respond quickly to changing business demands. But the agility comes at a price – it is very difficult to keep track of performance on each node and to correlate the multiple sub-tasks into meaningful business transactions. This loss of visibility can make it extremely difficult to assure reliable service levels.
Similarly, migrating application components to a cloud or shared service model introduces significant risks to service levels and performance. Due to the lack of visibility into the underlying IT infrastructure, problem resolution times often increase significantly.
OpTier BTM addresses these challenges by pinpointing and even de-allocating the nodes that slow down a business transaction. OpTier BTM also facilitates the shift to distributed computing environments by providing an efficient means of measuring performance and a framework for aligning IT with business objectives.
In a virtualized environment, shared service owners play a vital role in assuring a satisfactory end-user experience. OpTier BTM helps shared service owners to reduce outages and downtime, enhance user experience, improve capacity planning, and perform accurate chargeback. Learn more about OpTier BTM for shared-service owners. 
