Software Vendors and Their Tools/Applications

Now after knowing the process, hopefully it allows you to make a better selection of products to automate and make the development process more efficient. It begins with requirements (which can’t be over emphasized). For some time we have had software vendors developing Computer Aided Software/System Engineering (CASE), applications, and tools for processes (i.e., Project Management, Development, Software Configuration Management and Change Management, and Software Quality Assurance and Testing) to improve not only each process but to create a more efficient development process.

Using CASE and other tools/utilities to support configuration management /control activities has been essential not only for traditional techniques and methodologies but current techniques and methodologies (e.g., object oriented, rapid development, web development). These tools may automate basic change and version control activities (some web enabled and cross platforms) or support team development, work flow and process management, configuration control and change management, version control, build and release management, issue and problem tracking. These tools/applications have matured over the years to provide more efficient processes. There are many products identified and used throughout the industry. While there are many, the following is a list of some software vendors and their products. They are not listed in preferred order. It is important to understand that a tool is just a tool, and should be evaluated based on the business plan/strategy and the projects that drive the selection of a tool.

Rational Software Corporation: Clearcase and the Rational Unified Process (RUP)

Microsoft Corporation: Visual SourceSafe

Expertware, Inc.: CM Vision

Accounting Alliance LTD: FreedomWorks

MKS Inc.: MKS Source Integrity

Merant: PVCS

Visible Systems Corporation: Razor

Starbase Corporation: StarTeam

Computer Associates International, Inc.: Change & Configuration Control (CCC)/Harvest