Description / Abstract:
Configuration Management (CM) is a technical and management
discipline, that provides a positive impact on product quality,
cost, and schedule when consistently applied. This consensus
standard establishes the recognized principles of CM, and is
intended to assist in establishing, performing, or evaluating CM
systems. CM is an integrated system of processes that ensure
consistency of a product's performance, functional and physical
attributes with its requirements, design, and operational
information. The essence of CM, as portrayed in this consensus
standard, is the common application of CM functions and their
underlying fundamental principles, which have universal
applicability across the broad spectrum of commercial and
government enterprises. The standard provides an understanding of
"what" to do, "why" a customer/suppler should do it, and "when" it
is necessary to tailor the application of CM functions. This
standard fulfills the important function of providing a rational
basis upon which to apply good judgment in both planning for and
executing CM across the enterprise.