Abstract: A system and method for providing a code release infrastructure with granular code patching is described. Code patches, each including at least one resource unit are provided. Each resource unit includes metadata and file components. Code libraries, each including at least one resource unit, are patched. The metadata for each resource unit in the code patches is compared to the metadata for each such corresponding resource unit in the code libraries. Each resource unit in the code patches is merged into the code libraries for each such corresponding resource unit that is out-of-date as defined by merge rules. Archive files, as defined by archive file definitions, are created or updated using the resource units from the code libraries, or, optionally, are deleted. The archive files are digitally signed also as required. The system and method enables source and derived code and third party code to be patched granularly.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and mechanism for consolidating data. According to an embodiment of the invention, consolidation is performed based upon transformation rules established for data to be consolidated. An aspect of an embodiment of the invention relates to performing data transformations to resolve potential consolidation conflict issues. Another aspect of an embodiment of the invention relates to validation procedures performed after transformation.

Abstract: A computer system and method for accessing an altered database architecture using existing code. The present invention transforms information which is stored in a new format in a database such that it appears to existing code to be stored in an old format. In so doing, existing code which was originally designed to access the information stored in the old format is able to access the information stored in the new format. Thus, the present invention allows a user to access information contained within an altered database architecture using existing code.

Abstract: A software release system includes a customization copier and a ship list file. The ship list file enumerates a set of files contained in the new software release and includes a revision indicator, a file size and a checksum for each file in the new software release. The customization copier detects customizations to an old release by analyzing the revision indicators, the file sizes and the checksums.