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Coursera

Universal Service Desk (USD) for Enterprise IT Services

Packt via Coursera

Overview

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This course explores the Universal Service Desk (USD) as a strategic interface for delivering products and services across modern enterprises. It explains why the USD is central to effective service management, customer satisfaction, and organizational control in today’s IT-driven environments. Learners will gain practical insight into how a USD is designed, implemented, and operated, from concept to real-world execution. The course demonstrates how service desks support customers, manage information flows, integrate with back-office systems, and enable consistent service delivery across physical, virtual, and call-center environments. What sets this course apart is its balance of service management theory with concrete examples, including academic and government case studies. Real operational scenarios show how tools, processes, and people come together to form a mature and effective USD. This course is ideal for IT professionals, service managers, and business stakeholders involved in service delivery or support operations. A basic understanding of IT services or organizational processes is helpful but not required. This course is based on a book published by IT Governance Publishing. Brian Johnson and Paul De Rouw 2020. The authors have asserted their rights as the author under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act, 1988, to be identified as the authors of this work.

Syllabus

  • The USD in the Enterprise
    • In this section, we explore aligning service delivery with customer needs through the USD, emphasizing efficient processes and accessible service channels for enterprise operations.
  • The USD as a Concept
    • In this section, we cover the unified service delivery model and its role in business operations.
  • Delivering Products and Services Through the USD
    • In this section, we explore aligning product and service delivery with customer demand using USD frameworks. Key concepts include classifying services by demand and supply, understanding customer and back office orientations, and matching requests to delivery systems.
  • The USD Customers
    • In this section, we examine USD as a central service portal, explore customer segmentation, and analyze how expectations influence service quality perception.
  • From Design to Reality
    • In this section, we explore the five-phase approach to designing and improving a USD in a service organisation.
  • The Service Desk of Breda University of Applied Sciences
    • In this section, we explore how BUAS structures its service desk to support IT, facilities, and other departments. It emphasizes strategic planning, user-focused service delivery, and staff training for efficient operations.
  • Service Management Software
    • In this section, we explore service management software (SMS) functions in user service desk (USD) operations, its role in IT and facilities, and its impact on service efficiency through integrated systems.
  • The Virtual USD
    • In this section, we explore the virtual USD as an intranet-based self-service platform, focusing on service request handling, user accessibility, and workplace efficiency through digital tools.
  • Call Centre Functionality
    • In this section, we explore designing call centre functionality for the USD, focusing on remote contact methods like email and chat, and evaluating process quality for efficient service delivery.
  • The Service Counter
    • In this section, we examine the design and construction of a physical USD counter, focusing on layout, organisational structure, and material selection to enhance customer service efficiency and usability.
  • Account Management
    • In this section, we explore account management scenarios, the roles of USD in managing accounts, and the use of tools to enhance customer interaction and satisfaction.
  • Expert USD Staff
    • In this section, we examine the role of trained staff in USD operations, focusing on their competencies, functions, and the importance of effective training for operational success.
  • The USD and Back Office Dependencies
    • In this section, we examine the interdependence of USD and back office processes, focusing on designing agreements, analyzing mutual dependencies, and ensuring efficient request handling.
  • Business Information for the USD
    • In this section, we explore how the USD relies on accurate, timely information and how service management ensures connectivity. Visual tools like the metro map enhance process visibility and management.
  • USD Management and Organisation
    • In this section, we explore the structure and positioning of the USD within an enterprise, focusing on mission, processes, and customer needs for effective alignment and operational success.
  • IT and the Service Help Desk - Reflections by a Provider of Managed Services
    • In this section, we examine ITIL compliance in service desks, compare IT and managed services, and explore strategies for diverse industry needs.
  • The USD as a Key to Management and Control
    • In this section, we explore USD's role in aligning service strategies with enterprise goals and stakeholder needs.
  • Contract Management and the USD
    • In this section, we examine contract management processes and the USD's operational role in supporting service delivery and procurement efficiency.
  • Success Criteria
    • In this section, we examine factors that define a successful user support desk, including accessibility, information accuracy, and customer perception, to enhance service delivery effectiveness.
  • Quality Improvement
    • In this section, we explore quality management in USD, focusing on criteria, standards, and research to guide staffing decisions and improve service quality.
  • Implementation and Further Development
    • In this section, we examine systematic USD implementation, emphasizing stakeholder alignment, strategic management, and continuous improvement for effective development and change management.
  • Improvement Possibilities
    • In this section, we explore four themes-quality, employees, delivery, and policy to improve service outcomes through practical strategies and actionable tips for user-focused enhancements.
  • The USD of Things
    • In this section, we examine the evolving role of the USD as an intelligent hub in virtual work environments, focusing on its adaptation to technological and cultural shifts in enterprises.
  • A Case Study From The UK Government
    • In this section, we examine the UK government's consolidation of agencies to streamline procurement, align best practices, and enhance service efficiency through integrated frameworks and service catalogues.
  • Finally... For the Customer: The USD as an Interface
    • In this section, we explore the USD as a key interface for simplifying customer-enterprise interactions.

Taught by

Packt - Course Instructors

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