Before you can measure the value of CM, it is important to define what you want to achieve and how you will track and evaluate your progress. Depending on the nature, scope, and complexity of the project, different CM objectives and metrics may apply. For instance, some common objectives are to improve traceability of changes and versions, enhance collaboration among stakeholders, increase efficiency of development and delivery processes, reduce frequency and severity of defects and incidents, and ensure compliance with standards and regulations. To measure these objectives, some possible metrics include number and frequency of changes and versions, number and duration of reviews and approvals, and number and impact of rework or rollback. Other metrics involve number and resolution time of defects or incidents, and number and status of compliance checks or audits.
Measuring the value of configuration management involves assessing its impact on project efficiency, quality and risk reduction. Track metrics such as change request turnaround time, error rates and system downtime before and after implementing configuration management. Conduct regular evaluations to identify improvements and demonstrate the value it brings to the organization. 📊📈🔍
Value measurement in configuration management revolves around increased deployment reliability, system uptime, and the speed of recovery from incidents. Using Ansible, I track the reduction in deployment failures and the time saved on operations to quantify the value.
The value of configuration management can be measured by evaluating improvements in project efficiency, accuracy, and control. Key metrics include reduced errors and rework, faster problem resolution, improved traceability of changes, and enhanced compliance with standards. Additionally, assess cost savings from streamlined processes and increased stakeholder satisfaction due to more reliable and consistent project outcomes.
Once you have defined your CM objectives and metrics, collect and analyze your CM data to assess your current performance and identify your strengths and weaknesses. To do this, you can use several tools and methods such as CM software and tools that automate and integrate the CM activities, and CM reports that provide a summary and visualization of the data and trends. Other tools and methods include CM surveys and feedback that capture stakeholder opinions, or CM audits and reviews that verify the accuracy and completeness of the data and processes.
After you have collected and analyzed your CM data, it is important to compare and benchmark your CM results to evaluate your successes and identify any gaps. Utilize different sources and criteria for this comparison, such as baselines and targets that represent desired or expected CM outcomes, historical data and trends that show your CM performance over time, and benchmarks that reflect the CM performance of other projects. Other sources can include stakeholder expectations and requirements that indicate the CM value and satisfaction for customers, users, sponsors, and partners.
You can benchmark/compare internally if you have multiple programs or projects in the company. Gather standard metrics, establish goals and thresholds, and then compare the programs. What are the programs with good results doing that the programs with bad results are not? This can be helpful to see if a program has gotten off track from a CM perspective.
Measure the good and the bad. The value of a process is often made evident by examining the results when that process was not applied. When Deviations/Waivers are considered, that process often asks applicants to speculate the outcome if this request was denied. Ask that same question when measuring the value of any process. The value of CM, which touches all phases of a product or service, becomes self-evident simply by the awareness and control it offers. Rather than being a hidden cost, added expense, or extra effort CM casts a revealing light onto opportunities to streamline operations and cut waste. It works with Quality Management Systems and Continuous Improvement efforts to assure what needs attention gets attention.
At the end of your CM efforts, communicate and demonstrate the value of your work to stakeholders and audiences. This will justify your CM investments and showcase your achievements and benefits. To do this, you can use CM stories, metrics, testimonials, and awards as formats and channels. For instance, stories can illustrate the challenges and solutions, while metrics can quantify the improvements and savings. Testimonials can convey satisfaction from stakeholders and customers, while awards can acknowledge the excellence and innovation of your project.