Managing various levels of a large software system

Abstract

The orderly management of releasing, maintaining, and enhancing a large software system is described. The software system is used at various locations. A large software system is defined as more than a million lines of high-level code with associated softcopy documentation. The author only discusses the management of the various levels (versions) of the code within the software system. It is assumed that the requirements and functional specifications have been defined and the appropriate administrative actions have occurred. Specifics of the process are given, such as code library levels for software and softcopy documentation from development through testing and release to production. The process handles multiple levels and types of code and documentation from various groups (departments). A single system is used for tracking and releasing code with minimal personnel resource required. The appropriate level of security control is provided. The tracking and pertinent data are stored in one direct-access database. It is concluded that the data integrity provided by this system makes the developer's job easier. The tracking system keeps management informed of the status of system integration and problems as they develop. The total system ensures the orderly release and maintenance of code with minimal risk of contaminated production code.<>