Data ElementsFigure 7-1 gives an overview of which data elements may form part of metadata for a configuration itemthat is, the data that describe the configuration item. Data elements can be divided into these general groups:
Figure 7-1. Overview of Metadata
The data elements in each of these groups are treated in detail in the following sections. Metadatabase MediumThe registration of metadata may be carried out in different ways and in different media. Metadata for a configuration item may also spread over several media. Earlier, it was common to perform the registration on paper. This means that a form was filled in, stored, and kept up-to-date for each configuration item. This is not so common today, where databases are widely used for registration. Part of the registration may take place in the configuration item itself. As an example, the author's name is often written on the front page of documents or in the header in code files. Part of the registration may also take place in the tool used for storage of the configuration item. But tools do not always make it possible to register all necessary metadata. The most important thing is to consider which types of information should be registered and in which ways, as well as how the information can be procured for status reporting. It might be a good idea to use databases or the like instead of stating information directly in files, although it may seem a bit more burdensome. As a rule, it's easier to generate a report from a database than by reading through a (possibly) large number of files with statements in free text. Other Data ElementsA configuration item may have relevant data elements to register other than those shown above. This may be full name, if a more descriptive name is needed than the one required for unique identification, or it may be a description, if more information is needed. Special information may be needed, in connection with variants or the like. This is treated in Part IV, where it's relevant. The data elements mentioned above are those that are strictly necessary from the point of view of configuration management. |