Review By: Harry Acosta
03/13/2006In the second edition of the "Software Configuration Management Handbook," Alexis Leon describes the way software configuration management (SCM) should be done: in a simple, straightforward, but engaging and instructive manner. For the novice, the first three chapters contain excellent background information about software development and configuration management. I especially found the sections on SCM myths and software development life cycle phases to be useful. The section on SCM myths outlines several short-sighted views unknown to many outside the process. This section provides timely advice to help managers drive a project to successful completion. The author summarizes the software development life cycle section into steps used to build and implement quality software.

The second part of the book delves into the heart of SCM, touching on configuration identification, configuration control, accounting, verification, and auditing. Configuration auditing is especially helpful when the software project is used in a highly regulated environment, such as companies subject to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act or Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines.

Next, the author discusses advanced SCM concepts such as version control, release management, interface control, and software libraries--all valuable to companies that want to reuse code and minimize and organize software maintenance tasks. An invaluable reference of military, international, and commercial standards for companies specializing in these markets is included.

Leon shows “newbies” how to deal with the organizational structure, tools of the trade, and documentation management. He closes with an approach to implementation and operation of the SCM side of the software development business. The appendices provide excellent SCM references for pursuing.

After ten years in configuration management of information systems for pharmaceutical enterprises, I can say this book is one of the few reference books that explains all tasks related to configuration management in a concise and down-to-earth language. Even those relatively new to the SCM arena should find it quite easy to understand. The author balances illustrations with straightforward text throughout the book.

I recommend this book to software developers, managers, and consultants who want to improve their software’s quality or make a career out of software configuration management.