CMS 10's database, where all the operational data is stored, has been updated as well. The Universal Configuration Management Database (UCMDB) can now keep separate records for multiple business units. Such a feature, called multitenancy, is ideal "for large service providers," such as a SaaS (software as a service) provider or a Web hosting service, Augustine said. Clients can see "how your running their server environments in your data center," Augustine said.

"Initially, some of the large cloud service providers did not provide a lot of visibility into how they managed the infrastructure for their clients. Now, they are becoming a bit more open, and we believe that trend will only continue," Augustine said. Multitenancy could also be useful for large organizations, which could use the partitioning for contractors or different business units.

CMS 10, the first major update of the software in two years, comes with a number of other changes as well. The software also includes a new browser based interface, called HP UCMDB Browser, which might help those with less expertise -- such as security or application development teams -- navigate through the operational data more easily. They could search the database to see how widely particular applications are deployed within an organization, or if there are performance issues or defects associated with a software program. The package also includes 10 new discovery patterns, including a number for SAP's HANA database product.

HP claims that 20 companies in the Fortune 50 use CMS, including a number of the largest telecommunications firms and automobile manufacturers. Many mid-sized organizations use the software too.

CMS 10, part of the HP IT Performance Suite, starts at US$30,000.