5 replies to this topic

[Stefan Krueger]

An IBM-led group of companies has proposed a standard aimed at ironing out configuration problems in the installation of applications on business networks.
The XML-based specification, known as the Solution Installation for Autonomic Computing, was written by IBM, Novell, and installation software companies InstallShield Software and Zero G Software. IBM said the group's submission of the specification was accepted by the World Wide Web Consortium, or W3C, Thursday.
The specification is an XML-based document format that defines the software needed to run an application. When a developer writes the installation part of a business program, he or she will be able to outline what other software is required on the network. It is meant to prevent the configuration problems that can occur when a company installs or updates a business application in complex computing environments.
For example, an update to an insurance claims-processing application could require specific versions of a Web server or a certain hardware server configuration. Solution Installation tools can spot and sort out any problems automatically, instead of leaving them to be dealt with by an administrator, IBM said.

http://zdnet.com.com..._2-5271498.html

[Glytzhkof]

Sounds interesting. About time something other than Windows Installer came along.

[Stefan Krueger]

Macrovision® Announces the Beta of InstallShield for IBM Solution Installation

InstallShield product supports IBM’s new Solution Installation for Autonomic Computing Initiative

Macrovision® Corporation today announced the public beta program for its new product line, InstallShield for IBM Solution Installation. This new functionality was developed in partnership between InstallShield and IBM to provide a common approach to software packaging that will allow developers to more efficiently deploy and maintain their applications across a wide variety of platforms.

Read the full press release:
http://www.installsh...ault.asp?id=825

Product information and beta program:
http://www.installsh...oninstallation/

[Stefan Krueger]

Zero G Introduces SolutionArchitect, Enabling a Dramatic Improvement in Enterprise Software Deployment

SolutionArchitect is a software installation and configuration solution for building ready-to-deploy software packages using the new Solution Installation packaging standard.

For general information about participation in the early access program for SolutionArchitect, or to learn more about Zero G’s vision for the future of enterprise software deployment visit http://www.ZeroG.com/si

[jwveld]

What is the realtion with "repackaging". I can imagine that what you describe is relevant for new created software. How to proceed with existing software / software from third parties or even home-made stuff.

Edited by jwveld, 25 July 2004 - 21:30.

[Stefan Krueger]

I guess that for third party software that comes without such an XML file oyu would have to generate it yourself. Or ask the manufacturer to provide one.