Question 7

Having a backout plan when a patch fails describes effective change management procedures.

An effective change management procedure includes planning for potential failures, which is why having a backout plan is crucial. This ensures that if a patch does not work as intended, the system can be restored to its previous state without significant disruption.

A) Approving the change after a successful deployment

This option is incorrect because effective change management should involve a thorough review and approval process prior to deployment, rather than post-deployment evaluations. Approving changes after they have been deployed can lead to undetected issues and increased risk.

B) Having a backout plan when a patch fails

This option is correct as it emphasizes the importance of preparedness in change management. A backout plan is essential for mitigating risks associated with failed patches, allowing for a swift return to a stable system, thereby minimizing downtime and impact on users.

C) Using a spreadsheet for tracking changes

While tracking changes is important, relying solely on a spreadsheet is not an effective procedure for change management. More sophisticated tools and systems are generally required to adequately manage changes, track their history, and assess impacts, which spreadsheets cannot do effectively.

D) Using an automatic change control bypass for security updates

This option is incorrect as it undermines the principles of change management. Automatic bypass of change controls can lead to unreviewed and untested changes being implemented, thereby increasing the risk of introducing vulnerabilities or errors into the system.

Conclusion

Having a backout plan when a patch fails is the only option that directly supports effective change management procedures. It highlights the necessity of planning for failure and ensuring system stability, while the other options either present inadequate practices or compromise the integrity of change management processes.