Configuration Change Management

Abstract

Configuration Change Management is an integral part of the design and development process for products and processes. Many companies do not focus on the issue of change management even with the realization that change is inevitable. History has shown that if a company does not continue to innovate, whether it is products or services, it will not be able to remain successful. This philosophy is extremely important with design engineering companies. If managed correctly, change can be a significant benefit to a company. Changes come at various stages in the lifecycle of a product. Understanding the impact at the specific stage in a product lifecycle will minimize the impact to the business. Change should be approached as a planned and managed process versus a process driven out of necessity. Configuration change management should focus to align resources and activities within an organization. Prior to a change being implemented, all stakeholders should review the proposal or request for impact assessment. This impact assessment should include an assessment of implementation feasibility, cost, resource assessment, and schedule impact, as well as a review for implementation. By analyzing this data, a business is much better positioned to make a decision that has the lowest impact to the business and the customer. In addition, prioritization and approval of the change should be a decision made by all parties within the organization. If change is properly prepared for and anticipated, then the business will be much better positioned to react when product changes are necessary. By understanding how the change affects the business, a company is able to effectively implement the change with minimal impact to the business.