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MIL-HDBK-61A: Scope
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1.3.2 CM Benefits, Risks and Cost Impact.
Configuration Management provides knowledge of the
correct current configuration of defense assets and the relationship of those assets to associated documents.
The CM process efficiently manages necessary changes, ensuring that all impacts to operation and support are
addressed.
The benefits of the process should be obvious but are
often overlooked. ANSI/EIA-649 summarizes the benefits of CM from an industry view, as follows:
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Product
attributes are defined. Provides measurable performance parameters. Both Buyer and Seller have a common basis for acquisition and use of the product.
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Product
configuration is documented and a known basis for making changes is
established. Decisions
are based on correct, current information. Production
repeatability is enhanced.
-
Products
are labeled and correlated with their associated requirements, design
and product information. The applicable data (such as for procurement, design or
servicing the product) is accessible, avoiding guesswork and trial and error.
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Proposed
changes are identified and evaluated for impact prior to making change
decisions. Downstream surprises are avoided. Cost and schedule savings are
realized.
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Change
activity is managed using a defined process.
Costly errors of ad hoc,
erratic change management are avoided.
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Configuration information, captured during the product definition,
change management, product build, distribution, operation, and disposal processes [the
equivalent of the DoD acquisition life cycle], is organized for retrieval of key information and
relationships, as needed.
Timely, accurate information avoids costly delays and product down time; ensures
proper replacement and repair; and decreases maintenance costs.
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Actual
product configuration is verified against the required attributes.
Incorporation of changes to the product is verified and recorded throughout the product
life. A high level of
confidence in the product information is established.
These benefits are equally applicable to Government and
industry. Additionally, the effective application of CM principles to defense products contributes to and
enhances the partnering environment desired between the DoD and its suppliers.
In the absence of CM, or where it is ineffectual, there
may be
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Equipment
failures due to incorrect part installation or replacement;
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Schedule
delays and increased cost due to unanticipated changes;
-
Operational delays due to mismatches with support assets;
-
Maintenance problems, down-time, and increased maintenance cost due to
inconsistencies between equipment and its maintenance instructions; and,
-
Numerous
other circumstances which decrease operational effectiveness, and add
cost.
The severest consequence is catastrophic loss of
expensive equipment and human life. Of course these failures may be attributed to causes other than poor CM. The point is
that the intent of CM is to avoid cost and minimize risk. Those who consider the small investment in the CM
process a cost-driver may not be considering the compensating benefits of CM and may be ignoring or underestimating
the cost, schedule and technical risk of an inadequate or delayed CM process.
Throughout this handbook, selection criteria are
provided to aid in making choices concerning implementation of various CM activities and functions. In each applicable
instance, the means to complete a benefit/risk analysis is provided.
Rev
2006-11-18 12:04:03 -0700
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