The document summarizes a presentation about creating a world-class build system. It describes how the presenter solved the problem of build systems hindering timely product releases. They created an ROI case study and presented it to executives to get support and resources. They then implemented the technical architecture and design over 2 years using programming languages like PowerShell, C#, and ASP.net on a Windows server hardware configuration with dependencies on Citrix and NetApp software.

1. Creating
a
World
Class
Build
System
Scott
Estes,
Citrix
Systems,
Inc.
ABOUT THE PRESENTATION
Problem: What motivated you to do the work you will describe in this presentation?
I believe that without a rock-solid build system, it is extremely challenging to release a timely product that is of
quality. Having supported many product releases, some having great build systems and some not, I have
focused my energies and company contributions on ensuring that great product ideas are not hindered in their
“go to market” strategies by a sub-standard build system.
Solution: How did you solve the problem?
An ROI/TCO case study was created, (based on stakeholder requirements and historical release data), and
presented to engineering executives to get their support and subsequently the needed resources to execute on
the “Build Vision”. After that, it was a “simple” matter of technical architecture, design implementation and
execution.
ABOUT YOUR SOLUTION
To which users and/or tasks is your solution relevant?
Development, Test, Program Management and Release teams; basically all teams involved with the product
release.
How long has your solution been deployed?
2 years, (with ongoing updates.)
What programming languages and/or software development tools did you use to develop your solution?
PowerShell, C#, ASP.net, XML, SQL, WCF.
Which Perforce tools and/or APIs did you use?
The command line interface commands.
On what hardware/OS/configuration is your solution deployed?
Windows Server 2k8 on HP BL680s w/48GB RAM and a NetApp SAN with 10TB storage.
What other software or hardware does your solution depend on?
Citrix XenServer, NetApp OS.
Full presentation available at slideshare.net/perforce.