CSC/ECE 517 Fall 2009/wiki1a 4 co

Best practices for source-control management with version-control systems

  “Tip 23: Always Use Source Code Control” 
         – Hunt and Thomas, The Pragmatic Programmer [HT 00]

In software development, change is almost always inevitable [P 05] . Using a source configuration management (SCM) system (also known as a Source Code Control System (SCCS) or version-control system) can help individuals and teams manage the changes that occur during the software development process [D 90]. This article will provide the reader with basic information, and direct the reader to additional reading for more in-depth consideration.

Why Source Code Control is Necessary

According to Pressman, “Change is inevitable when computer software is built. [P 05]” He suggests four primary reasons for change:

• New business or market conditions
• New customer needs
• Reorganization, business growth, or downsizing
• Budgetary or scheduling constraints

Each of these reasons can cause changes in project requirements, in project priorities, or in the resources available to create or enhance a project. Managing the change with an SCM enables engineers to focus on technical work, and enables project managers to control changes which can affect project outcomes.