complexity within a software application. ITIL ITIL contains concepts, policies, and recommended practices on a broad range of IT management topics. These are again entirely compatible with the objectives and methods of Lean IT. Indeed, as another best-practice framework, ITIL may be considered alongside the CMMI for process improvement and COBIT for IT governance. Universal Service Management Body of Knowledge (USMBOK) The Universal Service Management Body of Knowledge (USMBOK) — is a single book published by Service Management 101 and endorsed by numerous professional trade associations as the definitive reference for service management. The USMBOK contains a detailed specification of a service system and organization and leverages the rich history of service management as defined within product management and marketing professions. The service organization specification describes seven key knowledge domains, equivalent to roles, and forty knowledge areas, representing areas of practice and skills. Amongst these, within the Service Value Management knowledge domain, are a number of Lean relevant skills, including Lean Thinking and Value Mapping. The USMBOK also provides detailed information on how problem management and lean thinking are combined with outside-in (customer centric) thinking, in the design of a continuous improvement program. COBIT Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology – better known as COBIT – is a framework or set of best practices for IT management created by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), and the IT Governance Institute (ITGI). It provides managers, auditors, and IT users a set of metrics, processes, and best practices to assist in maximizing the benefits derived through the use of IT, achieving compliance with regulations such as Sarbanes-Oxley, and aligning IT investments with business objectives. COBIT also aims to unify global IT standards, including ITIL, CMMI, and ISO 17799. Notes References Bell, Steve (2012), Run Grow Transform, Integrating Business and Lean IT, Productivity Press, . Bell, Steve and Orzen, Mike (2010) Lean IT, Enabling and Sustaining Your Lean Transformation, Productivity Press, . Shingo Prize Research Award 2011 Bell, Steve (2006) Lean Enterprise Systems, Using IT for Continuous Improvement, John R. Wiley, . Yasuhiro Monden (1998), Toyota Production System, An Integrated Approach to Just-In-Time, Third edition, Norcross, GA: Engineering & Management Press, . Womack, James P., and Roos, Daniel T. (2007), The Machine That Changed the World, Free Press, . Womack, James P. and Jones, Daniel T. (2005) “Lean Consumption.” Harvard Business Review. Information technology management