"Configuration management" refers to the management of changes and configurations in IT systems and software environments throughout their entire lifecycle. The goal of configuration management is to ensure the consistency, integrity, and reliability of systems and to enable efficient management of configuration changes. This includes planning, identification, control, verification, and documentation of configuration changes.
Typical functions of software in the "configuration management" area include:
Configuration Identification: The software enables the unique identification and classification of configuration items such as hardware components, software versions, documents, or configuration files.
Version Control: The software provides features for managing versions and revisions of configuration items to track changes and ensure traceability.
Change Management: The software supports the process of planning, approval, implementation, and review of configuration changes to minimize risks and assess impacts.
Configuration Management: Administrators can centrally manage configuration items, including their properties, relationships, dependencies, and attributes.
Automation of Configuration Changes: The software offers automation features for repetitive or standardized configuration changes to reduce human errors and increase efficiency.
Auditing and Compliance: The software enables monitoring and auditing of configuration changes to ensure compliance with policies, standards, or regulatory requirements.
Documentation and Reporting: The software generates reports on configuration changes, version history, audit trails, and compliance evidence to ensure transparency and traceability.