One method includes mapping a set of environment independent attributes and tokenizing a set of environment dependent attributes in a user selected format. Optionally, the tokens may be replaced with values for the environment dependent attributes. The mapped attributes and the values for the environment dependent attributes may then be used to configure an environment(s). In one embodiment, the configuration is a transaction in a J2EE environment and the format is XML. Additionally, the transaction may tolerate the presence/absence of attributes which are to be installed/deleted. Moreover, the method may support uninstalling applications, change logging, version skipping, and generating prospective change and state reports. The mapping may be from an operational or development server. Likewise, the configuration can occur to an operational or development server. The sets of attributes may be identified by, for example, using predefined rules.