Abstract: A method, system, and computer program product for controlling code in a multi-developer software development environment is provided. In one embodiment the software development tool identifies a plurality of software components as non-modifiable and prevents unauthorized access and modification to the non-modifiable objects. When a request from a requesting user to modify one of the software components is received by the development tool, the tool determines whether the software component has been checked out by another user and, if not, provides the requesting user with a modifiable copy of the one of the software. If the software component has been checked out by another user, the requesting user is presented with information as to who has checked out the software component and may send a message to that person if the requesting user so desires.