Which function is specifically designed to manage IT operations?

The function specifically designed to manage IT operations is IT Operations Management. This function is responsible for the daily management and maintenance of the IT infrastructure and services, ensuring that all operations run smoothly and efficiently. It includes monitoring, control of IT infrastructure, and management of IT services, which are crucial for maintaining service levels.

IT Operations Management plays a vital role in managing the operations environment, including the management of data centers, server farms, and network operations, ensuring that these critical components of IT service delivery are functioning as intended. Additionally, it oversees the execution of operational activities such as job scheduling, performance monitoring, and incident response.

Other functions like Technical Management, Application Management, and the Service Desk have specific roles within IT service management. Technical Management focuses on providing the technical expertise and support related to IT infrastructure. Application Management deals with the lifecycle management of applications, ensuring they meet business needs and are properly supported. The Service Desk serves as the primary point of contact for service requests and issues, facilitating communication between IT and the user community but does not directly manage IT operations as a whole.

Thus, IT Operations Management is distinct in its comprehensive approach to managing the operational activities and overall performance of IT operations, which is why it is recognized as the correct answer.