Introduction
The Delta Analysis feature allows users to compare two Configuration objects to identify equivalencies and differences in their Configuration Items. Equivalency is primarily determined by the title of the configuration item, among other factors. This feature helps in pinpointing changes and discrepancies between different configurations, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the data.
Determining Equivalency in Delta Analysis
The Delta Analysis feature determines the equivalency of Configuration Items between two Configuration objects using a structured comparison approach. The process involves several steps:
Title Matching:
The primary factor for determining equivalency is the title of the configuration item.
For each configuration item in the first configuration, the Delta Analysis looks for items in the second configuration that have the same title.
Single Match Scenario:
If there is exactly one configuration item in the second configuration that matches the title of the configuration item from the first configuration, that item is considered equivalent.
Multiple Matches Scenario:
If multiple configuration items in the second configuration match the title, additional factors are used to refine the equivalency determination:
Storage Location: The storage location of the configuration items is compared.
Referenced Work Product: The referenced work product associated with the configuration items is compared.
These additional factors help in narrowing down to the most accurate equivalent configuration item.
By following this method, the Delta Analysis feature ensures a precise and reliable comparison between configuration items, facilitating accurate identification of changes and differences between configurations.
Outcomes and Display of Delta Analysis Results
The Delta Analysis feature presents the results of the comparison by displaying equivalent configuration items side by side. The search for equivalency can have multiple outcomes, each handled differently to provide clear insights into the configurations.
Possible Outcomes of the Equivalency Search
Single Match Found:
When a configuration item from the first configuration has exactly one equivalent item in the second configuration, they are displayed side by side.
These items are further compared for differences in:
Properties
Records
Description
Concept type of the configuration item
state
storage location (if this restriction step was not needed in the equivalency search)
referenced work product (if this restriction step was not needed in the equivalency search)
If there are differences in any of these factors, the line is highlighted and a button is provided to compare the data in detail.
If all these factors are identical, the configuration items are simply displayed next to each other in one line.
Multiple Matches Found:
If multiple configuration items in the second configuration match a single item from the first configuration (even after applying all restriction steps), it indicates a data inconsistency.
In such cases, each matching configuration item is displayed on its own line to highlight the issue.
No Match Found:
If a configuration item does not have an equivalent item in the other configuration, it is displayed on its own line.
These items are shown in green to indicate that they are unique to either the first or the second configuration.
Example
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