Configuration Management

Planning

Due to its interrelations and interdependencies with other processes, Configuration Management is one of the pillars of the ITIL methodology. This makes its implementation particularly complex.

Although a detailed plan for the implementation of Configuration Management is more than we can offer here, it is worth highlighting the following basic points:

• Put someone in charge: excessive decentralisation may result in a lack of coordination and undermine the whole process.
• Invest in a software tool suitable for the tasks required: manual organisation is impractical.
• Carry out a careful analysis of the existing resources: management of stocks, assets, etc.
• Clearly establish:
• The scope and objectives.
• The level of detail
• The process or implementation: order of importance, Gantt chart, etc.
• Coordinate the process closely with Change Management, Release Management and the Purchasing and Supply Departments

A lack of planning will almost certainly lead to incorrect Configuration Management, with serious consequences for other processes.