Technology advancements, particularly in Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things, are significantly transforming Configuration Management (CM). Moving from document-based to model-based approaches presents challenges in knowledge artifact identification and change management. The Industry 4.0 committee emphasizes the need to rethink CM methodologies to adapt and efficiently manage these evolving dynamics.
Industry 4.0, introduced by the German government, emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies like IoT into manufacturing. A survey showed many companies focus on initiatives like Big Data and Augmented Reality, with Configuration Management (CM) being crucial for handling increased product complexity. However, insufficient CM maturity poses risks as companies embrace these changes.
The article discusses the transformative potential of additive manufacturing, particularly 3D printing, on manufacturing and configuration management. By significantly reducing components and documentation needs, it simplifies processes like impact analysis and supply chain management. However, it also introduces complexities related to model-based engineering and security concerns, necessitating strategic implementation.