I define a configuration as a consistent and uniquely identified set of work products. For example, I collect requirements or parts of requirements into one coherent package. Then, I assign one specific version to each item. Therefore, every selected item appears in at most one version. Consequently, the configuration remains unambiguous.
First, I describe the product dimension. Here, I state which requirements the configuration contains. For instance, I may include all requirements for a French release. Alternatively, I may select only the requirements for a lightweight mobile version. Second, I describe the version dimension. In this dimension, I fix one version per requirement. Thus, I ensure that each requirement appears in exactly one version in this configuration. If I change one requirement version, then I create a new configuration.
Moreover, I document each configuration as a work product. I give it a unique identifier. In addition, I record its state, version number, and date. For example, I may label a frozen configuration 1.0. Therefore, I can always trace which set of versions I used at a given time. Consequently, reviewers and team members see a consistent requirement status.
I follow several key properties when I build a requirements configuration. First, I ensure logical connection. In other words, I choose requirement versions that fit together for a specific purpose. Second, I ensure consistency. That means the combined requirements do not conflict and can integrate into a system. Third, I ensure uniqueness. Thus, it and each included requirement version have clear, unique identifiers. Fourth, I ensure unchangeability. In practice, I freeze the selected versions so the configuration does not change. Finally, I provide a basis for reset. In case of problems, I can roll back to this configuration.
For example, I may compare production and system-test configurations. In production, I may include R1 v2.0, R2 v1.0, R3 v1.2, and R5 v2.0. Meanwhile, in system-test, I may include R1 v2.0, R4 v0.9, and higher versions of R7 and R9. Thus, configurations can differ in both product content and version choices. Consequently, they represent distinct, actionable sets of requirements.
Furthermore, I treat some configurations as baselines. A baseline represents a stable, validated, and change-controlled configuration. Therefore, I mark milestones or important resting points with baselines. In addition, I use baselines to coordinate releases, testing, or audits.
Moreover, I apply configuration management to protect integrity. Specifically, I use configuration management processes to establish and maintain the integrity of identified outputs. In addition, I make these outputs available to concerned parties. For example, I control access, record changes, and provide clear communication so that reviewers and developers work from the same configuration.
Finally, I admit that in practice teams sometimes create inconsistent configurations. For instance, teams may freeze work in progress to preserve a snapshot for later access. Nevertheless, I recommend aiming for logical connection and consistency. In short, I use configurations to make requirement sets stable, traceable, and reusable. Consequently, I reduce risk, support rollback, and enable clear communication across projects.