A Common Software-Configuration Management System for CERN SPS and LEP Accelerators and Technical Services

Software-configuration management activities are crucial to ensure the integrity of current operational software and the quality of new software either being developed at CERN or outsourced. The functionality of the present management system became insufficient with large maintenance overheads. In order to improve our situation, a new software-configuration management system has been set up. It is based on Razor R, a commercial tool, which supports the management of file versions and operational software releases, along with integrated problem-reporting capabilities. In addition to the basic tool functionality, automated procedures were custom-made for the installation and distribution of operational software. The system ensures that, at all times, the status and location of all deliverable versions are known, the state of shared objects is carefully controlled and unauthorized changes prevented. This paper outlines the reasons for selecting the chosen tool, the implementation of the system and the final goals achieved.