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How Do I Choose the Best Open Source Bug-Tracking Software?

Alex Newth
Alex Newth

Open source bug-tracking software is used by developers and programmers to check for coding problems in custom programs, databases and websites. While most open source bug-tracking software boasts professional features, you should ensure there is proper support for installation and potential issues. Bug-tracking software can check an entire program’s code but, if you just want to scan one section, then a filtered bug tracker will decrease scan time. Most bug-tracking programs are made for a certain type of program or coding structure, and you should only get a tracker that meets your requirements. Recording every action that occurs to a program or database will ensure that you do not repeat the same mistake twice.

Getting free or inexpensive open source bug-tracking software is much cheaper than buying a commercial program, but there can be some problems that commercial programs usually avoid. There is typically no qualified support team for open source programs, so you may have issues with bugs in the bug tracker or installation problems when setting up. To decrease this possibility, you should seek out a bug tracker with a helpful community to assist if issues arise.

Open source bug-tracking software is used by developers and programmers to check for coding problems in custom programs, databases and websites.
Open source bug-tracking software is used by developers and programmers to check for coding problems in custom programs, databases and websites.

Most open source bug-tracking software is capable of going through an entire program or database and ensuring the code has no bugs. While this extensive tracking may be required, you will often just need a section of code scanned. Filters allow you to block off certain sections, which will decrease the scan time and make it easier to work on smaller portions of the code.

Some general open source bug-tracking programs exist, but most programs are made for a specific type of coding structure. For example, a database bug tracker is ineffective when used to check a website’s coding, because the two structures are built with different coding languages. You should get a bug tracker that suits your needs.

When the open source bug-tracking software picks up a bug, you will have to fix the issue. If an issue keeps arising in one section, then having a recording feature can help alleviate the problem. For example, if you are incorrectly coding a section, then having a history feature will allow you to check the code you previously placed in that section so you can reference it and identify the problem. This also will keep you from accidentally typing in the same incorrect coding.

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    • Open source bug-tracking software is used by developers and programmers to check for coding problems in custom programs, databases and websites.
      By: Photo_Ma
      Open source bug-tracking software is used by developers and programmers to check for coding problems in custom programs, databases and websites.