We often encounter customers who, despite having active software subscriptions, are still using versions of our tools that are five, seven, or even more years old. This can lead to problems and missed opportunities, particularly when compatibility issues arise—such as those seen with recent HCL Notes 64-bit client releases. Staying current with upgrades ensures you're prepared for these critical junctures.
Why Upgrade?
Upgrading your software ensures you get the most out of your tools while maintaining compatibility with the latest versions of HCL Notes. Here are a few key benefits of upgrading:
Maximize Your Investment in Domino and Teamstudio Tools
By upgrading to the latest versions of CIAO! and Build Manager, you can take advantage of the advanced features and capabilities we've developed. These tools are designed to enhance your workflows, improve productivity, and provide robust support for your Domino application development environment and processes.
Enhanced Performance in CIAO!
The latest version of CIAO! includes significant performance improvements, allowing you to work faster and more efficiently. Whether you're managing design elements or tracking changes, these enhancements ensure a smoother experience for your team. You'll especially notice these improvements in high latency environments, such as working remotely with CIAO over VPN.
Automated Features in Build Manager
Build Manager now has additional enhanced automation features you may use in your build processes. These updates simplify the management of complex builds, saving time and reducing the risk of errors. Capabilities such as being able to initiate builds from the command-line now allow you to integrate Build Manager into larger code release projects utilizing additional external build tools.
Proactive Technical Support
We support the current release of our products and the previous major version. Upgrading ensures that you're eligible for technical assistance and can take advantage of our expertise to address any challenges that arise.
Compatibility with the Latest HCL Notes Versions
Keeping your tools up to date ensures compatibility with the latest HCL Notes and Domino versions. This is critical for maintaining a seamless workflow and avoiding potential issues caused by outdated software. Especially in the areas where Build Manager and CIAO are used, version management and application build/release automation.
How to Upgrade CIAO and Build Manager
Upgrading the tools is a straightforward process, but it's important to follow the correct steps to ensure a successful transition. Below, we've outlined the key actions for upgrading both CIAO and Build Manager. For detailed instructions, refer to the official knowledge base articles and documentation linked throughout this section.
Upgrading CIAO
To upgrade CIAO, follow these steps:
1. Backup Your Data
Before starting the upgrade, ensure your backups of all critical data, including your CIAO! configuration databases and especially CIAO logs, are in place.
2. Download the Latest Version
Obtain the latest version of CIAO! from the the download page.
CIAO! Client: Available for either 32bit or 64bit Notes clients.
CIAO! Server: Also available for both 32bit or 64bit versions of Domino.
4. Install the New Version
Follow the installation instructions provided in the CIAO Upgrade Process KB Article.
Be aware that you may need to upgrade both the CIAO clients, and CIAO server (if used).
3. Upgrade the Configuration Database and Logs
Use the appropriate template to update your CIAO! configuration database and related CIAO! log files.
ciao.ntfj: CIAO! configuration database template.
ciaologf.ntf: CIAO! log database template.
Both templates will install as part of the CIAO! client installation and are also contained within the CIAO! server downloadable .zip package. You may use either set of templates to update your current database designs.
5. Verify the Upgrade
After installation, verify that the upgrade was successful on all development workstations and that all configurations are working as expected by running through general Check In/Out actions and other typical CIAO! functions.
For a more detailed process, please again refer to the CIAO Upgrade Process KB Article as well as the CIAO! installation documentation.
Upgrading Build Manager
It is important to understand the existing setup of Build Manager within your environment prior to commencing with any upgrade as the solution may be utilizing several instances of any of its core templates.
The Build Manager solution can incorporate several instances of its core templates to help facilitate application build and release processes. Attempt to determine your precise setup prior to beginning any upgrades.
These are all customizable depending on your requirements, development processes and application build and release approach. If you are unsure of these aspects we strongly recommend engaging those within your organization to gain further understanding prior to beginning your upgrade.
To upgrade Build Manager, follow these steps:
1. Backup Your Data
As with CIAO!, back up your configuration databases and any critical data. If you are using Build Manager components like Template Registry or the Approvals Workflow databases include those within your backup set.
2. Download the Latest Version
Access the latest version of Build Manager from the download page. If you are using either a 32bit or 64bit Notes client on your promotion workstations then Build Manager will deploy the correct executable at the time of the first promotion. There are not separate downloads in each case.
You will find four .ntf files in the .zip package:
bmconfig.ntf: The core Build Manager product.
templateregistry.ntf: The Template Registry component for storing template versions.
workflow.ntf: The background Workflow database.
agentparameters.ntf: The database used in combination with the "Run Agent" build step.
Be sure to sign the templates prior to deployment with an appropriate production ID and remove any old Build Manager templates that may be stored on the server.
3. Upgrade the Build Manager Configuration and Component Databases
Update all of your Build Manager configuration databases using the appropriate template. To do so, identify which templates are in use in your environment and update them accordingly.
Once again, please note:
Not all customers use every module. For example, the Template Registry component may not be in use in your implementation.
Verify which templates are relevant to your setup by reviewing your current Build Manager configuration.
4. Verify the Upgrade
Test the upgraded Build Manager instances to ensure everything is functioning correctly. You may do this by running through some of your standard build or promotion paths ensuring your release steps complete as expected.
Your software maintenance plan is your gateway to the latest features, performance enhancements, and technical support. By staying current with upgrades, you ensure your tools remain compatible with the latest technologies and optimized for performance.
Ready to Upgrade?
Upgrading CIAO and Build Manager is a simple yet impactful way to enhance your workflows and ensure you're getting the most out of your investment. In summary, for detailed instructions, refer to the following resources:
Finally
Remember that upgrading your software isn't just a routine task—it's an opportunity to maximize the value of your investment, boost performance, and ensure compatibility with the latest HCL Notes and Domino releases. Upgrading to the latest versions enables you to take advantage of the latest features and enhancements we've introduced over time.
If you have any questions or need assistance, our support team is here to help.