Software Configuration Management (SCM)

Introduction

• SCM stands for Software Configuration Management.

Definition

• SCM is the process of managing and controlling changes to software code, documentation, and other artifacts that are part of the software development process. 

Characteristics

• SCM involves tracking and managing changes to software artifacts throughout the development process, from initial requirements gathering to final delivery.
• It includes the management of software versions, releases, and builds, as well as the tracking of defects and issues.
• SCM tools provide a central repository for software artifacts, enabling multiple developers to work on the same codebase simultaneously.
• SCM also provides features for managing access control, versioning, branching, merging, and release management.
• SCM is important in software development because it helps teams manage the complexity of software projects and maintain a consistent and stable codebase.
• SCM typically involves the following activities:
  • Version control: This involves managing changes to software artifacts over time, including keeping track of different versions of the same file.
  • Build management: This involves creating executable software from source code and related artifacts.
  • Release management: This involves planning and coordinating the release of software to users, including managing different versions and ensuring that the release process is repeatable and reliable.
  • Change management: This involves managing requests for changes to software artifacts, including tracking the status of change requests and ensuring that changes are properly authorized and tested.
  Thus, SCM tools and systems are used to automate and support all these activities. Some popular SCM tools include Git, Subversion, and CVS.

Objectives

• The goal of SCM is to ensure that changes to software artifacts are made in a controlled and orderly fashion and that the changes are tracked, recorded, and communicated to all relevant stakeholders. Thus, SCM is to ensure that the software development process is efficient, reliable, and repeatable.
• Effective SCM practices can improve software quality, reduce development time, and minimize the risk of errors and defects. SCM is an essential part of software engineering, particularly in large-scale software development projects where multiple developers are working on the same codebase.