What is an APM service?

Application Performance Monitoring (APM) services are essential tools for understanding and optimizing the performance of applications, ensuring a superior user experience and meeting Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Objectives (SLOs). These services, often provided by third parties, deliver critical insights into application behavior, such as latency and error causes, while facilitating automated service level management and distributed tracing. Many businesses lag in adopting APM solutions, relying instead on custom-built systems that can be costly and inefficient. Commercial APM tools, like New Relic APM 360, offer immediate benefits, such as fast time-to-value, reduced maintenance burdens, and expert support, making them a valuable investment. The decision between building or purchasing APM solutions involves assessing total costs, including hidden expenses and opportunity costs. By leveraging open standards like OpenTelemetry, organizations can avoid vendor lock-in and future-proof their operations. Essential features of APM services include easy installation, automation, integrated alerts, and advanced visualization tools to facilitate quick problem resolution and system optimization.