15 September 2009
In addition to source control, I have now setup Trac for project management. In fact, I have a script that I use at the beginning of every project to create an SVN repository, and then create a Trac instance for that repository.
So, what is Trac? Trac is a project management software, specifically aimed at developing software. It provides a way to easily view the changes in the source code over time, a "ticket" system, and a wiki for documentation about the project or for planning changes.
The ticket system provides a way to easily track feature requests or bugs. Tickets can be submitted by either the developer or the client. Comments can be added to any ticket, and files can be attached. This is useful for things like attaching screen-shots of errors.
The wiki provides a collaborative environment for maintaining documentation. With the proper setup, the documents on the wiki can be compiled into user documentation in pdf or Word format (along with others).
So in simple terms, what does this mean for clients? It means that Chaqar has an industry standard method of tracking bugs and feature requests, and maintaining miscellaneous information and documentation for projects. It makes it less likely that requests or bugs will be forgotten, and also provides a valuable historical record of the changes made for a project.
