Best practice for a configuration management solution

Abstract

This paper captures best practice in attaining a configuration management (CM) solution. Some buyers of CM tools assume that installing a new tool will automatically solve their CM problems. But this “silver bullet” expectation is not met without effort since there is more to attaining a good CM solution than merely buying the tool. Key practices that enabled successful companies to implement the best possible CM solution, are presented here. It turns out that the best solution is a combination of having the most suitable CM technology, sensible deployment strategies, a culture that is amenable to change and growth, and people that are knowledgeable about CM activities. Understanding best practice is vital for companies considering a better CM solution — it allows leveraging from previous experiences so that they can more easily, effectively, cheaply and painlessly attain their corporate CM goals. Unfortunately, some companies fail because of poor practices. Yet, every company should succeed. The best practices presented here are designed to help companies avoid typical pitfalls in the procurement, evaluation, strategic planning and deployment of their CM tools.