What is Configuration Management?

Configuration management is the process of creating and maintaining an up-to-date record of all the components of the ICT (convergence of information technology, telecommunications and data networking technologies into a single technology) infrastructure, including related documentation. Its purpose is to show what makes up the ICT infrastructure and illustrate the physical locations and links between each item, known as configuration items.

Configuration management is more than just the recording of computer hardware for the purpose of asset management, although it can be used to maintain asset information. The extra value provided by configuration management is the rich source of support information it provides consistently to all interested parties. This information is stored together in the configuration management database (A database which contains all relevant details of each ICT asset otherwise known as a configuration item (CI) and details of the important relationships between CIs.)

Who uses Configuration Management?

Configuration management is used predominantly by those responsible for ICT and ICT technical support. These may include external suppliers.

Access to asset information (i.e., Component of a business process, assets can include people, accommodation, computer systems, networks, paper records, fax machines, etc.) may be required by those responsible for the finances of an organization.

How Configuration Management works

Configuration management works by identifying configuration items and their inter-relationships, recording them and keeping them up to date.  The process is enabled by a Configuration Management Database (CMDB) to record the configuration items. The CMDB is where all information on configuration items is stored. The data is made up of configuration item records and attributes of those records.  This is kept up to date via its relationships with other processes such as Change Management, Incident Management, and/or Stock Control.

What you should expect now that you have implemented Configuration Management

Technical staff do not move equipment without following the appropriate process to ensure that it is tracked. End-users do not move equipment themselves. The configuration management database is updated promptly by those responsible for it. Access to the configuration management database is controlled. Technical support staff carry out regular audits of ICT equipment. All ICT equipment has an asset tag. New equipment is recorded and tracked as soon as it is delivered.

What you should have achieved through Configuration Management

There is a way of keeping a record of all ICT assets. The processes for keeping this record up to date have all been implemented (request for change, incident/request, stock control). All hardware and software moves and changes are tracked through the update processes. Technical support has access to accurate asset records at all times. Technical support has access to up-to-date information about ICT equipment. There is a way of identifying the age of equipment and planning for its replacement. It is possible to account for equipment that has been assigned to departments and individuals. The foundation has been laid for technical support to understand the relationships between ICT components. An effective CMDB update process means few amendments will need to be made after an ICT audit

Benefits of having implemented Configuration Management

The location of ICT assets is tracked so ICT equipment is less likely to be lost. Having a clear picture of what ICT equipment you already owns helps prevent unnecessary expenditure. You will be able to determine the value of ICT assets for the purpose of insurance policies or depreciation calculations. You will have accurate hardware information to use in negotiating a price for maintenance contracts - not knowing what needs support is likely to lead to an over-estimation of charges or lack of control of costs. Accurate information about equipment helps in planning for changes and upgrades. Accurate information about equipment helps in the diagnosis of incidents and problems. All information about equipment is in one place, which makes the information easier to maintain and helps it become a trusted source.

MNB Technical Services can assist you in implementing and maintaining a Configuration Management Practice that is tailored to your specific IT organization.