What are the most useful tools or platforms for creating and managing configuration management documentation?

1 Why CM documentation matters

CM documentation serves multiple purposes, such as providing a clear record of configuration items and their attributes, relationships, and dependencies. It enables traceability and auditability of changes and their impacts on the system, facilitates communication among stakeholders involved in the project, supports verification and validation activities like testing, reviews, and inspections, and enhances reuse and scalability of system components and processes. As such, CM documentation is not only a deliverable but a valuable asset for the project's success.

2 What to document in CM

The scope and content of CM documentation may vary depending on the project requirements, standards, and best practices. However, a configuration management plan is typically included which outlines objectives, policies, procedures, roles, and responsibilities. It also covers the tools, methods, and metrics used for CM activities. Configuration identification identifies the configuration items, their baselines, and their naming conventions. Configuration control outlines the change management process including the change request, approval, implementation, and verification steps. Configuration status accounting reports the current status and history of the configuration items and their changes as well as details about configuration audits, reviews, and inspections conducted. Finally, configuration verification and audit documents the methods and criteria used to verify and validate the configuration items and their changes. It also records results from configuration audits, reviews, and inspections.

3 How to document CM

Creating CM documentation can be done using various formats and standards. Text-based documents are the traditional way of documenting CM, but they may lack structure, consistency, and integration. Database systems are more functional and secure, but they require technical skills and maintenance. Graphical tools can enhance clarity, comprehension, and collaboration, but they may not capture all the details of CM. Web-based platforms can support distributed and agile teams, however, they depend on network availability and performance.

4 What are the best tools or platforms for CM documentation

The best tools or platforms for CM documentation depend on various factors such as project size, complexity, scope, methodology, budget, timeline, and resources. Additionally, stakeholders' needs and expectations , as well as quality, security, and compliance standards should be taken into consideration. When selecting the best tools or platforms for CM documentation, it is important to consider ease of use, functionality, reliability, scalability, flexibility, and support. Popular tools or platforms for CM documentation include Git (a version control system), Ansible (an open-source automation platform), Confluence (a web-based collaboration platform), and Docusaurus (a web-based platform for creating and maintaining documentation websites). All of these offer useful features and capabilities to meet the requirements of the project.

5 How to improve CM documentation

Continuous improvement of CM documentation is essential for successful project management. To ensure accuracy and completeness, you should follow the project standards and guidelines, use clear and consistent language, and use appropriate formats and styles. Diagrams, charts, or tables can be used to illustrate complex or abstract concepts. Cross-references, hyperlinks, or indexes can facilitate navigation and access. Version control, change management, and quality assurance tools are also beneficial for this purpose. Additionally, it’s important to use feedback, metrics, and lessons learned to identify and address gaps and issues. Best practices and examples from other projects or sources can also be useful for learning and improving.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?