Full Description

Configuration Management, a discipline popularized by its use in the acquisition ofdefense systems, is widely used for commercial products and services. WhenConfiguration Management principles are applied using effective practices, return oninvestment is maximized and product life cycle costs are reduced. This standard isintended to be used when establishing, performing, or evaluating ConfigurationManagement processes in any industry, business enterprise or governmentorganization.

This standard describes Configuration Management functions and principles anddefines a neutral Configuration Management terminology for use with any product line.Configuration Management (CM) applies appropriate processes and tools to establishand maintain consistency between the product and the product requirements andattributes defined in product configuration information. A disciplined CM processensures that products conform to their requirements and are identified and documentedin sufficient detail to support the product life cycle. CM assures accurate productconfiguration information and enables product interchangeability and safe productoperation and maintenance to be achieved. Although product configuration informationdoes not include project or administrative types of information (e.g., schedules, plans,and cost information), these types of information may also be placed underConfiguration Control.

The small investment in resources necessary for effective Configuration Management isreturned many fold in cost avoidance.

CM implementation requires a balanced and consistent implementation of CM functions,principles, and practices throughout the product life cycle. CM facilitates orderlyidentification of product attributes and provides control of product information andproduct changes used to improve capabilities; correct deficiencies; improveperformance, reliability, or maintainability; extend product life; or reduce cost, risk orliability.