Gartner addresses challenges in network automation tools

Many enterprises are encountering difficulties in scaling their automation initiatives, primarily due to fragmented processes and unconnected tools, as detailed in Gartner's 2025 Market Guide for Network Automation Platforms. This update presents relevant insights for IT decision-makers focused on improving automation strategies.

Challenges with Fragmented Automation

Organizations face barriers caused by isolated automation, referred to by Gartner as “automation islands.” This fragmentation arises when different teams utilize various tools that lack effective integration, leading to inefficiencies and complications in scaling automation initiatives.

Impact of Tool Sprawl

The use of multiple automation tools by most enterprises complicates the ability to connect workflows seamlessly. Automation becomes scattered across various scripts and platforms, resulting in challenges with coordination and often requiring reliance on manual processes or implicit knowledge to connect functions.

Identifying Symptoms of Automation Silos

Symptoms indicating that an organization is entrenched in these silos include the automation of tasks rather than processes, challenges in reusing scripts across teams, and persistent dependence on manual approvals. Consequently, many organizations struggle to show a widespread return on investment from their automation efforts.

Need for Orchestration

To address these challenges, organizations should prioritize orchestrating their current automation tools rather than initiating new systems. This approach necessitates a transition from task-oriented automation to developing comprehensive workflows, facilitating more effective operations.

Utilizing Itential for Improved Automation

The Itential Platform aims to resolve fragmentation by enhancing integration among existing automation tools. It includes features such as a unified execution framework and low-code capabilities, empowering teams to create, test, and manage workflows across various domains.

Conclusion

Automation fragmentation should not be perceived as a failure; instead, it highlights the need for improved orchestration. By tackling these issues, organizations can progress toward greater integration and efficiency in their automation strategies. This summary presents a factual overview of the original blog post.