The case for configuration management

The author describes the role of configuration management in ensuring the effective control of information before, throughout, and beyond, the product life cycle. The author explains what is meant by configuration management and then describes the four key elements involved: identification, change management, status accounting, and audit/review. As a case study the author briefly outlines the Advanced Configuration Management System (AdCoMS) project was a five year study, supported under the Fourth Framework Programme of the European Commission, designed to develop a common CM model for the European aerospace industry.