How the CM2 Game teaches the true value of Configuration Management

What is Configuration Management, and why is it so important?
How the CM2 Game teaches the true value of Configuration Management

Configuration Management (CM) is a structured process that ensures all components of a product or system are accurately recorded, tracked, and managed throughout its entire lifecycle. The goal is to maintain consistency and reliability in complex systems, especially when changes are introduced. But why is this so crucial in modern manufacturing?

At the recent CM2 & Digital Twin Event held at the MicroLab in Eindhoven, students, companies, and specialists delved deep into these questions. Through presentations, real-life examples, and the CM2 game, participants gained a clear understanding of the role Configuration Management plays in their workflows.

Martijn Dullaart from ASML, with over 20 years of experience in CM, kicked off with a presentation on the fundamental principles: solid planning, professional document management, and the importance of effective communication and collaboration. One stark but instructive case he shared was about the crashes of two Boeing 737 MAX planes, where the failure to properly follow CM principles led to catastrophic errors in the system's configuration.

The CM2 Game: Learning by doing
After this introduction, participants took part in the well-known CM2 game. Based on the CM2 methodology, the game allowed teams to experience first-hand the consequences of poor documentation and uncoordinated changes. Building a simple LEGO car quickly became a challenge when critical configuration documents were missing, or changes were not clearly communicated. This illustrated how rapidly product errors can accumulate without proper Configuration Management.

What is CM2?
CM2, developed by the Institute of Configuration Management, is a set of best practices that focuses on managing changes and the entire product lifecycle correctly. It distinguishes itself with its holistic approach and emphasis on improving processes, documentation, and collaboration. CM2 goes beyond traditional CM methods by proactively identifying and preventing errors, leading to higher product quality and reduced risks.

Innovation through Configuration Management
In the third part of the event, students from InMotion, along with Kai de Kiviet and Sven Rademaker, offered a glimpse into the future of CM in the automotive industry. Their electric race car, intended to compete in the 24-hour race at Le Mans, uses advanced Siemens software and a Digital Twin for simulations. By integrating Configuration Management and this digital twin, engineers can collaborate faster and more efficiently, prevent errors, and perfect the car’s design.

Conclusion
Configuration Management, supported by the CM2 methodology, is not only important for preventing errors and optimising processes but also essential for innovation and collaboration within the manufacturing industry. Curious about what CM2 can do for your organisation? Get in touch with Sven Rademaker or Roos Poldervaart, and experience the CM2 game with your colleagues to see the benefits for yourself!

With our commitment at Emixa for this group of students, we aim to find internships for them at our clients with interesting assignments. If you are a student interested or an entrepreneur with a great project you want to involve students in, get in touch, leave a message and ask about the possibilities.

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Together with our partners, we organize more events in knowledge sharing. Interested?