TABLE OF CONTENTS The term configuration can be defined as the relative disposition or arrangement of parts of something. In the context of systems engineering, the "something" is normally a configuration item that forms a part of the overall system and the "relative disposition or arrangement of parts" is called a baseline. To that end, CM is the act of controlling and managing the physical and functional makeup (defined in the baselines) of the configuration items that comprise the system [6].
The main aims of CM are to identify the functional and physical characteristics of selected system components, designated as configuration items, during the acquisition phase; to control changes to those characteristics; and to record and report on the change processing and implementation status [7].
Through an effective CM system, an accurate snapshot of the state of each CI (and through these, the system) can be provided. CM allows an effective history of changes to the system design to be maintained, including the alternatives considered and reason for selecting the preferred alternative.
For CM to be effective, the following functions must be performed throughout the project:
Identification of the items to be placed under CM;
Control of these items through an effective and documented change management process;
Status accounting to provide accurate and up-to-date status information on the configuration of the items placed under control;
Audits (such as PCA and FCA) to confirm the correct operation of the CM system.
The baselines...
