config-mgmt FAQ

• What is this list?

  This list is dedicated to discussing all aspects of practical configuration management, including what it is, how and when to do it, and what tools to use. Because most tools have their own mailing lists, this list generally only covers general topics, or the integration of multiple tools.

• What is "Configuration Management" as covered by this list?

  There are a few definitions out there that are candidates, and Google defines it in many ways. A good one is:

  The process of identifying and defining the deliverable product set in a system, controlling the release and change of these items throughout the system life cycle, recording and reporting the status of product items and change requests, and verifying the completeness and correctness of the product items. (ASC)

  One generally only discusses configuration management in the context of providing a tool to help with it, so there is an implied level of automation when people discuss it, even if automation isn't mentioned in the definition.