When developers build software, they're able to keep track of all the different versions and all the components they use with Software Configuration Management (SCM) systems. One of the more popular SCM products is Perforce. Authored by Perforce's own VP of product technology, "Practical Perforce" is the ideal complement to the existing product manual, focusing less on the 'how" and more on the "why" and "when." The book is not only a helpful introduction to Perforce, it's an enlightening resource for those already familiar with this versatile SCM product. Whether you're a programmer, product manager, or build engineer, you stand to benefit from the many insider tips and ideas presented in this convenient guide. "Practical Perforce" is divided into two main parts. Part I offers a whirlwind technical tour, complete with careful descriptions of basic and advanced Perforce commands designed to give you a baseline knowledge. Part II describes the big picture-using Perforce in a collaborative software development. It outlines recommended best practices and quickly shows how to implement them with the Perforce operations introduced in Part I. Throughout the book, you'll learn how to maximize Perforce so it completes tasks like these in the most efficient manner possible: keep track of changes as you conduct concurrent parallel work on files; log activity; generate reports on who did 'what' 'when'; compare, merge and branch files; store files and file configurations; and restore lost bug fixes. Recognizing the pitfalls and practices of an SCM system like Perforce is absolutely essential to producing good software. Now, with "Practical Perforce", you have the edge you need to ensure success.

About the Author
Laura Wingerd formed her early opinions of software configuration management during a decade of wrangling builds and source code for the Sybase and Ingres database products. She joined Perforce Software the day the company moved out of its founder's garage and has since acquired quite a bit of SCM expertise from the very Perforce customers she purports to advise. Every now and then, she comes up with an idea of her own and spews forth in a white paper or a speaking engagement. Laura is currently vice president of product technology at Perforce Software, dividing her time between promoting sound SCM practices and investigating new and better ways to put Perforce to use.

Reviews
"It is an indispensable companion for any Perforce user who wants to get it right. Highly recommended." - Mike James, - VSJ, September 2006



Book Information
ISBN 9780596101855
Author Laura Wingerd
Format Paperback
Page Count 340
Imprint O'Reilly Media
Publisher O'Reilly Media