8 Recording Old Versions

It is very important to keep backup files of all source files of GNU. You can do this using RCS, CVS or PRCS if you like. The easiest way to use RCS or CVS is via the Version Control library in Emacs; Concepts of Version Control.

The history of previous revisions and log entries is very important for future maintainers of the package, so even if you do not make it publicly accessible, be careful not to put anything in the repository or change log that you would not want to hand over to another maintainer some day.

The GNU Project provides a CVS server that GNU software packages can use: subversions.gnu.org. (The name refers to the multiple versions and their subversions that are stored in a CVS repository.) You don't have to use this repository, but if you plan to allow public read-only access to your development sources, it is convenient for people to be able to find various GNU packages in a central place. The CVS Server is managed by cvs-hackers@gnu.org.

The GNU project also provides additional developer resources on subversions.gnu.org through its savannah.gnu.org interface. All GNU maintainers are encouraged to take advantage of these facilities, as savannah can serve to foster a sense of community among all GNU developers and help in keeping up with project management.