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Creation and Delivery of the Release Package

Procedures for creating the release package are used once the preparation steps have been completed and it is time to create the release package. Typically, there is a master copy of the release package and copies are distributed to customers. Depending on Center policy, the master may be created by the CM group and the copies created, packaged, and shipped by another group. Whatever process is used needs to be clearly defined in the release management procedures.

When developing those procedures, consider the following:

• Identify the scope of the release, including the full set of configuration items (CIs) that are to be included, their versions and revisions.
• Identify the tools to be used to create the release, including compilers and linkers.
• Identify the software to be used to create the release, including the operating system, macros, libraries.
• Identify software and tool options to be used (compiler options, environmental parameters).
• Identify the procedures for creating the master copy of the release or reference them if captured elsewhere.
• Identify who generates the master copy of the release package.
• Document the format, layout, and media for the master.
• Document the verification process to confirm the master contains the proper CI's.
• Identify the media to be used for the delivery copies.
• Document replication procedures to be used to generate copies of the master.
• Document verification procedures to be used to confirm the copies match the master (keep in mind that compilers can insert dates and times, so byte-by-byte compares need to take this into account).
• Document any virus checks that need to be run on the copies before delivery to the customer.
• Document any testing to be performed at the customer site (e.g., regression testing).

When developing procedures for delivery of the created package, consider the following:

• Document whether the release is a full release, partial release which requires a previous full release to be installed first, or a patch; if all types will be used, procedures for creating and installing each need to be created.
• Document delivery methods and procedures, including shipping methods, if required.
• Document security measures to be used when handling and shipping the release.
• Determine an installation schedule that works with the customer's schedule.
• Document responsibilities for performing installation and installation testing.
• Document responsibilities for configuring and/or customizing the installed software.
• Document plans to revert to an earlier release of the software, as applicable.

Storage and Maintenance of the Release Package

As part of release management, the master needs to be safely and securely stored following documented procedures. When developing procedures for storing and maintaining the release package, consider the following:

• Document the retention period; e.g., "master copies of code and documentation shall be maintained for the life of the software product" (IEEE SA 1042-1987, IEEE Standard for Software Configuration Management

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• Document how to place the master into the CM system with its unique identifier.
• Document access restrictions.
• Document or reference any specific procedures for storing code and documentation for safety or security critical functions.
• Identify release records, such as the TermVDDVDDVDD (Version Description Document), to be captured and stored with the release, as applicable.

Additional guidance related to CM of deliverable and releases may be found in the following related requirements in this Handbook:

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