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ITS Software Release Process

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This flowchart shows the Software Release Process. Click here for the Software Release RACI Chart.

SWR Process

This RACI chart shows the tasks and roles for the Software Release Process. In the leftmost column, the tasks for releasing software are listed. Along the top, the different roles are identified. The responsibilities are labeled as the following:

  • R = Responsible (This role conducts the actual work. There can be multiple Rs.)
  • A = Accountible (This role approves the completed work and is held fully accountable for it. There should be only one A.)
  • C = Consulted (This role will be consulted to help the work be completed. Two-way communication.)
  • I = Informed (This role is to be informed of progress and results. One-way communication.)
 

Software Release Manager
Desktop Ops Manager
Support Center Manager
System Owners
Software Licensing Coordinator
SDS Service Manager
SDS Team (Local CAB)
Change Manager
ITS CAB
Release Awareness & Analysis
R
C
I
C
C
A
I
I
I
Approval to Build
I
I
I
I
I
A minor
R minor
A major
R major
Design, Build & Test
R
R
C
C
I
A
I
Rollout Planning
C
R
A
C
C
C
I
Approval to Implement
I
I
I
I
I
A minor
R minor
A major
R major
Distribute & Install
I
R
A
I
C
I
I
Release Review
R
C
C
C
C
A
I

Major software releases are for major updates to the standard core software such as operating systems, web browsers, office productivity tools and security & email programs. These major updates generally include multiple new features and functions. Example: Outlook 2003 to Outlook 2007.

Minor software releases are for the standard add-on software and also include minor updates to core software (if the update does not include major function changes). Example: Safari 3.1 to 3.1.1.

Roles clarification

System Owners include Technical Managers and Campus Business System Owners. They are consulted and informed about new releases/updates for the systems for which they are responsible.

The SDS Service Manager (Standard Desktop Support) chairs the SDS Team (Local Change Advisory Board) and makes sure decisions for approvals are made.

The Change Manager chairs the ITS CAB (Change Advisory Board) and makes sure decisions for approvals are made.

Please contact me with any questions or comments. Thank you.

John Lallemand
Software Release Manager