This section provides a general introduction to using AnthillPro's build and deployment management capabilities.
| Before you begin, it is recommended you read the Concepts section to get a general understanding of the terminology used. For example, it will be helpful to know what is meant by "Lifecycle Model," "Environment (and Environment Group)," "Workflow," and "Job." |
The step-by-step instructions -- which, in general, should be followed in the order of presentation -- take a hands-on approach to using AnthillPro:
Install AnthillPro. Takes you through the different installation scenarios. Since AnthillPro is a Java application, it can run on most any operating system. The system requires you to install the central server, including a backing database, as well as at least one agent.
Set up the server. Walks through basic server configuration you will most likely need to perform before creating your first project. In general, you will need to activate the license, set up a user and configure security, assign agents to an environment, and then configure at least one repository (and possibly a trigger).
Create a new project. Begins the process for getting a build going in AnthillPro.
Set up a build. Covers what you need to know to set up a basic build in AnthillPro. With a build process in place, AnthillPro is configured to provide all you will need for Build Management.
Set up Continuous Integration. Introduces you to implementing Continuous Integration with AnthillPro. Building upon the "Setting Up a Build Process" section, you can see how to add unit testing to the build, as well as set up a basic notification scheme.
Configure basic notifications. Shows you the different options for notifying developers (and others) on the state of the build. You can configure the instant message and/or email integrations.
Set up a deployment (secondary or non-originating workflow). Takes you through the steps necessary to deploy the build artifacts. This section introduces the concept of Artifact Sets, which are used by the AnthillPro Deployment Management system. Once you have a deployment process in place, AnthillPro automatically links every deployment to a build (also called a Build Life).
Add dependencies with another project. Gives you the basics of how the AnthillPro dependency management system works, including instruction on setting up a simple dependency relationship. Most projects will depend on the artifacts from another project in order to build; however, it is possible to use AnthillPro without the dependency management feature.
Integrating other tools. Provides a general overview of what tools AnthillPro integrates with, and how the integrations are configured through the UI.
Once you are familiar with AnthillPro basics, the Advanced Authoring and Advanced Usage sections give you a deeper look at extending AnthillPro.