Networks have always been essential to the success of IT as they serve as the connective tissue for all other elements of IT infrastructure and services. However, in recent years, enterprises have begun leveraging networks as competitive assets. Given this reality, the network is now held to a higher standard of availability and performance than ever before. The tools and practices that network management teams use to deliver quality network services are more important than ever. 

This ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES® (EMA™) research report takes a detailed look at the current state of networks and network management. It examines several major areas of change and evolution affecting network management, or what EMA calls "megatrends." These megatrends include hybrid cloud networking, the Internet of Things, advanced network analytics, network management outsourcing, and network management tool consolidation.