What does a Configuration Management Plan (CMP) primarily track?

A Configuration Management Plan (CMP) primarily focuses on the systematic identification, control, and tracking of software changes as well as other components within a system. This plan is an essential part of IT management, as it ensures that all changes to software, hardware, and related documentation are properly managed and documented. By tracking software changes, the CMP helps maintain the integrity and reliability of the system, facilitating easier troubleshooting, reducing the risk of errors, and supporting compliance with standards and policies.

The role of a CMP extends beyond just documenting changes; it provides a clear framework for how changes are authorized, tested, implemented, and reviewed. This is critical for effective risk management, as any modifications to a software system can significantly affect its performance and security.

The other options do not align with the primary purpose of a Configuration Management Plan. Employee performance metrics focus on workforce productivity, market share data relates to business performance in relation to competitors, and product quality assurance encompasses practices for ensuring that products meet specified standards. None of these elements concern the management and tracking of software changes, which is the core function of a CMP.