Chapter 15: Defect Tracking with Bugzilla

Overview

Why does a project need defect-tracking software? Requirements can be vague or misunderstood, and even the best developers make mistakes when creating a module. Modules that work perfectly well in isolation often prove to need bug fixes when system and integration testing begins. Users often wish to request new features as well.

Defect-tracking software packages can create a central repository to maintain a running list and status of the software shortcomings mentioned above. Good defect-tracking software can also serve as a conduit of communication between the members of a project team.

The original defect-tracking mechanism for high-tech projects was probably a stack of Post-it notes or a small spreadsheet maintained by the project lead. In this chapter you will learn to use the Bugzilla package to facilitate defect tracking for your projects.

Where to Get Bugzilla

Bugzilla was created by mozilla.org to replace the bug tracking software that had been in use at Netscape. Bugzilla is both free and open source; it is available under a combination of Mozilla and Netscape public licenses, as well as GPL. You can download the software at:

www.bugzilla.org/