Axios Assyst

Basic Information

Axios Systems Axios Assyst, now known as IFS assyst, is an enterprise-class IT Service Management (ITSM) and IT Asset Management (ITAM) software solution. It was originally developed by Axios Systems, a company founded in 1988, and has evolved over two decades to support ITIL best practices. In March 2021, IFS AB acquired Axios Systems, rebranding the product as IFS assyst.

• Model: assyst (platform)
• Version: The platform has undergone continuous development. Notable versions include v10 SP5 (released April 21, 2014), 11.2 (circa 2019), 11.8 (released March 26, 2024), and the latest mentioned is 25R1.
• Release Date: The original assyst platform has been in development for over 20 years. Specific version 11.8 was released on March 26, 2024. IFS assyst 25R1 is the current major release.
• Minimum Requirements: Specific hardware requirements for on-premise deployments are not publicly detailed. Cloud-based deployments rely on the provider's infrastructure.
• Supported Operating Systems: Older versions like 7.5 supported Windows. For modern cloud-based and on-premise deployments, client access is typically via web browsers, supporting various operating systems. Server-side OS details for on-premise are not specified in public information.
• Latest Stable Version: IFS assyst 25R1 is the latest major release, with version 11.8 released in March 2024.
• End of Support Date: While Axios Systems was acquired and is now defunct, IFS AB has committed to enhancing and improving Assyst, ensuring ongoing support for the product under the IFS assyst brand. Specific end-of-support dates for individual versions are not publicly available.
• End of Life Date: The Axios Systems entity ceased to exist after its acquisition by IFS in March 2021. The product continues its lifecycle as IFS assyst.
• License Type: Commercial software. Available through various licensing models, including perpetual licenses for on-premise and subscription-based for SaaS deployments. An "assyst Integration License" is available for integration components without requiring a standard user license.
• Deployment Model: Available as both an on-premise (local deployment) solution and a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) cloud-based offering (assystSaaS).

Technical Requirements

IFS assyst is designed for enterprise environments, supporting both cloud and on-premise deployments. Specific granular hardware requirements for on-premise installations are not extensively publicized, reflecting its adaptable architecture.

• RAM: Not explicitly specified for on-premise deployments. Cloud deployments benefit from scalable resources.
• Processor: Not explicitly specified for on-premise deployments. Cloud deployments benefit from scalable resources.
• Storage: Not explicitly specified for on-premise deployments. Version 11.8 introduced reduced memory and storage requirements for attachments with Azure Storage V2 support, indicating optimization for cloud environments.
• Display: Typically accessed via web browsers, requiring standard display resolutions for optimal user interface experience.
• Ports: For on-premise deployments, standard network ports for web services (HTTP/HTTPS) and database connectivity are required. Specific port details are typically provided during implementation.
• Operating System: For on-premise server installations, enterprise-grade operating systems are expected, though specific versions are not publicly detailed. Client access is browser-based, supporting common desktop and mobile operating systems.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for IFS assyst are flexible, primarily due to its dual deployment model. For cloud deployments, the infrastructure is managed by IFS or its partners, abstracting most hardware concerns from the end-user. On-premise deployments, while offering greater control, necessitate adherence to recommended server specifications that are typically provided during the implementation phase. The focus on web-based access ensures broad compatibility across various client operating systems and devices, minimizing specific client-side hardware demands. Recent updates, like Azure Storage V2 support, highlight a continuous effort to optimize resource utilization, particularly for cloud-hosted instances.

Support & Compatibility

IFS assyst offers comprehensive support and compatibility, aligning with industry standards and leveraging its extensive history in ITSM.

• Latest Version: IFS assyst 25R1 is the latest major release, with version 11.8 released in March 2024.
• OS Support: Client access is primarily web-based, ensuring compatibility with most modern operating systems via standard web browsers. Older versions of assyst (e.g., 7.5) explicitly supported Windows.
• End of Support Date: IFS is committed to the continued enhancement and support of IFS assyst. Specific end-of-support dates for individual versions are managed through customer agreements and IFS's product lifecycle policies.
• Localization: While not explicitly detailed, Axios Systems had a global presence with offices across Europe, Canada, and the USA, and served customers in over 80 countries, suggesting extensive localization capabilities.
• Available Drivers: The system emphasizes integration capabilities with other IT systems and third-party applications through APIs and integration platforms, rather than traditional hardware drivers.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

IFS assyst demonstrates a strong overall support and compatibility status. Its long history and adherence to ITIL best practices mean a mature and well-supported product. The acquisition by IFS further solidifies its future, with IFS committing to ongoing development and integration into the broader IFS Cloud ecosystem. The web-based interface ensures broad client OS compatibility, and robust integration capabilities allow it to function effectively within diverse IT landscapes. While specific localization details are not always public, its global customer base implies multi-language support. Support services are available, with contact options provided by IFS.

Security Status

IFS assyst incorporates robust security features designed for enterprise-level IT Service Management, adhering to recognized standards and practices.

• Security Features: Provides a security perspective within its IT Operations Management (ITOM) technology. Aims for enhanced availability and security of IT services.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Publicly available information does not list specific security vulnerabilities for the "Axios Systems Axios Assyst" or "IFS assyst" enterprise software. (Note: Vulnerabilities reported for the open-source JavaScript library 'axios' are distinct and not applicable to this enterprise software product.)
• Blacklist Status: No public information indicates a blacklist status for IFS assyst.
• Certifications:
  • ITIL® Version 3 recommendations and ITIL 2011 practices.
  • BS15000 (now ISO 20000) certification in 2004.
  • PinkVERIFY™ accreditation for 16 ITIL processes, making it one of the first ITSM vendors to achieve this within a single solution.
  • American Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants' Service Organization Controls (SOC) certification.
  • National Cyber Security Centre's Cyber Essentials certification.
  • PwC certification seal.
• Encryption Support: While not explicitly detailed, adherence to ISO 20000 and SOC certifications, along with support for secure authentication methods, implies robust data encryption in transit and at rest, particularly for SaaS deployments.
• Authentication Methods:
  • Standard IFS Assyst service requires SAML 2.0 authentication.
  • Older versions supported various mechanisms: Kerberos for assyst WEB, LDAP for assyst NET, and database authentication for assyst Mobile.
• General Recommendations: Organizations should implement strong access controls, regularly update the software, and follow best practices for secure configuration and user management. For on-premise deployments, maintaining a secure server environment is crucial.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

IFS assyst exhibits a strong security posture, underpinned by its extensive list of certifications, including ISO 20000 and PinkVERIFY for ITIL processes, as well as SOC and Cyber Essentials certifications. These certifications indicate a commitment to established security and service management standards. The support for modern authentication protocols like SAML 2.0 further enhances its security framework. The absence of publicly reported vulnerabilities specific to the enterprise software (distinguished from the JavaScript library) suggests a mature product with a focus on stability and security. Overall, IFS assyst is considered a secure solution for enterprise asset management, provided that deployment and operational best practices are followed.

Performance & Benchmarks

IFS assyst is designed for enterprise-level performance, focusing on efficiency and scalability for complex IT environments.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, publicly available benchmark scores (e.g., industry-standard performance tests) are not provided.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Version 11.8 introduced "Higher Performance" with optimizations in reporting and hosting, including reduced memory and storage requirements for attachments through Azure Storage V2 support.
  • Described as a "user friendly, highly scalable and performant solution for the digital age."
  • Some users have reported performance issues when managing extremely large datasets or during peak operation times.
  • The system is noted for its ability to handle complex processes and configuration management.
• Power Consumption: Not publicly specified. For SaaS deployments, power consumption is managed by the cloud provider. For on-premise, it depends on the underlying server hardware.
• Carbon Footprint: Not publicly specified. For SaaS deployments, this would be part of the cloud provider's environmental impact.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • Competitors include ServiceNow, BMC Helix, Cherwell Service Management, JIRA Service Management, IBM Tivoli, and BMC Remedy ITSM.
  • IFS assyst is often compared favorably for its comprehensive ITIL functionality within a single application and rapid out-of-the-box implementation.
  • It is noted for its strong integration capabilities, though some users suggest its range of supported third-party applications might be more limited than some competitors.
  • In Gartner Peer Insights, assyst has a strong overall rating, with users rating it highly for service and support, ease of integration and deployment, and evaluation and contracting compared to some competitors.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

IFS assyst generally offers strong performance suitable for large organizations, with continuous improvements aimed at enhancing speed and efficiency, as seen in version 11.8. Its "out-of-the-box" ITIL integration is a key performance differentiator, enabling quicker deployment and faster return on investment compared to modular systems. While it is designed to be scalable and performant, some user feedback indicates potential challenges with extremely large datasets or during peak usage, a common characteristic for many enterprise systems. The lack of specific public benchmarks makes direct quantitative comparisons difficult, but its competitive standing against market leaders like ServiceNow and BMC suggests a robust performance profile within the ITSM landscape.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for IFS assyst (formerly Axios Systems assyst) highlight its comprehensive capabilities and ease of use, alongside some areas for improvement.

• Strengths:
  • Comprehensive feature set and robust ITSM capabilities, including incident, problem, change, and asset management.
  • User-friendly interface and intuitive design.
  • Strong alignment with ITIL practices and certifications for 16 ITIL processes.
  • High degree of customization, allowing organizations to tailor the software to specific business needs and workflows without coding.
  • Strong integration capabilities with other systems and tools, enabling seamless workflows.
  • Scalable to accommodate organizational growth.
  • Automation features, including workflow automation and AI-powered chatbots, enhance efficiency.
  • Provides a self-service portal and a fully-featured mobile app for end-users.
  • Offers centralized control and full visibility over IT infrastructure and assets.
  • Good customer support, with the customer care center often praised for assistance even with outdated versions.
• Weaknesses:
  • Can be costly and complex, especially for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets.
  • Initial setup and configuration can be complex and time-consuming, requiring significant effort to align with specialized business processes.
  • Some users report performance issues when managing extremely large datasets or during peak operation times.
  • Error messages can be generic (e.g., "A general error has occurred"), and log files may lack necessary detail.
  • Handling of permissions can be less intuitive.
  • "Power users" sometimes complain about performance and handling.
  • Server restarts may be required after changing parameters.
  • While offering integration, the range of supported third-party applications and plug-ins might be more limited compared to some competitors.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Comprehensive IT Service Management (ITSM) and IT Asset Management (ITAM).
  • Incident, problem, change, and request management.
  • Service desk operations and self-service portals.
  • Enterprise Service Management (ESM) extending beyond IT to HR, Facilities, and Finance.
  • Organizations seeking to streamline IT operations, improve service delivery, and gain centralized control over IT assets.
  • Large and multi-national enterprise organizations with complex IT infrastructures.

Summary

IFS assyst, formerly Axios Systems Axios Assyst, stands as a mature and robust enterprise asset management and IT service management solution. Its core strength lies in its comprehensive, single-application approach to ITIL processes, offering out-of-the-box functionality that facilitates rapid deployment and a quicker return on investment. The platform is highly customizable, allowing organizations to adapt it to specific workflows without extensive coding, and boasts strong integration capabilities with other IT systems.

Key strengths include its user-friendly interface, extensive automation features, and a commitment to industry best practices, evidenced by numerous certifications like ISO 20000 and PinkVERIFY for ITIL processes. The availability of both on-premise and SaaS deployment models provides flexibility for diverse organizational needs, and its mobile and self-service capabilities enhance user experience.

However, the solution can present challenges, particularly for smaller organizations, due to its potential cost and the complexity involved in initial setup and configuration. Some users have noted performance concerns with extremely large datasets or during peak usage, and certain aspects of its error reporting and permission management could be improved. While offering broad integration, its ecosystem of third-party application support might be less extensive than some competitors.

Overall, IFS assyst is an excellent choice for large and complex enterprises seeking a comprehensive, ITIL-aligned, and highly configurable ITSM and ESM solution. Its continuous development under IFS AB, including recent enhancements in performance and AI capabilities, positions it as a competitive offering in the enterprise service management market. Organizations prioritizing a single, integrated platform for IT and enterprise service management, with a strong emphasis on ITIL compliance and customization, will find IFS assyst to be a powerful tool.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.