Which process aids in maintaining quality throughout the lifecycle of a system?

Configuration management is integral to maintaining quality throughout the lifecycle of a system. This process involves systematically managing changes to ensure that a system's performance, functional, and physical attributes are consistent and conform to specified requirements. By keeping detailed records of the system's configuration, including its components and their relationships, configuration management allows for effective control of changes, ensures traceability, and facilitates thorough documentation.

By continuously monitoring and controlling any alterations, configuration management helps prevent unintended consequences that can arise from changes, thus supporting the overall quality assurance processes. It ensures that any modifications made to the system are implemented in a way that maintains its integrity, reliability, and performance, ultimately contributing to the successful realization of the project's objectives. In this way, it plays a critical role in the longevity and effectiveness of the system throughout its lifecycle.