Selected Patterns for Software Connguration Management

Much of the detailed knowledge required to implement good Software Connguration Management systems has not been adequately cataloged and documented. The Design Pattern methodology provides a means to help rectify this deeciency. Based on the authors' experience in implementing Software Connguration Management tools, a selection of basic techniques for Software Connguration Management are presented as Design Patterns. Though the techniques present are not new, their formulation in terms of Design Patterns facilitates the learning and understanding of SCM system design. It may also facilitate the use of these techniques outside traditional SCM such as for CAD and databases.