All of the information managed during the evolution of issues and the development of code is maintained in world readable, easily parsed, ASCII files. Although the tool suite is delivered with a robust set of mechanisms for querying this database, Tower Concepts recognizes that each site has unique requirements. Users are encouraged to write their own query mechanisms, which can be done either through programs, or (more likely) UNIX shell scripts employing the natural powers of awk, perl, grep, etc. As users develop query tools, they are encouraged to contact Tower Concepts about possible inclusion in future releases and thereby becoming fully supported.

The user interface is highly extensible. Each work group can attach programs and scripts either directly to pull down buttons on the main displays, or as 'side effects' of the normal action buttons. For example, a work group could attach a script which sends e-mail each time certain files are checked out. Another group could automatically run metrics analysis programs on files as they are checked back in.

Users may also interact with Razor via an e-mail interface. Problem report input, file update and queries can all be performed by team members who may be located remotely. In fact, supplementing Tower Concepts' phone support, customer problems, questions and suggestions will be handled using this mechanism. By mailing to razor-issues@tower.com, all inputs will be directly logged into our Razor database and a ticket number will be automatically returned to the sender for identification and tracking.

Additionally, a configurable set of remote users can take advantage of e-mail to do the standard set of version control activities; check files in/out for edits, getting read-only copies, etc.

Expanding on the above themes, Razor's global tracking capability allows geographically distinct project teams to work off synchronized problem tracking databases. The resultant distributed environment facilitates communication and coordination of efforts between groups working in different locations.

Global tracking is included free with the normal Razor installation, and is simple to administer.

Razor is available for the following configurations... (all running with the Motif GUI)

Ports to other configurations are in progress. Please contact the vendor for more information.

Razor requires under 8Mb of file server disk space for the operating software. Storage needs for the customer generated databases will be installation dependent.

Razor is $495 per floating license, with volume discounts available. (Yes... that's right; $495/copy. Not $3K, not $4K... just $495.) Sites interested in obtaining more than 100 licenses are encouraged to consider a full site license, which sells for $42,000. A full year of customer support and product upgrades are included free in the purchase price. Terms are available for both on and off site consulting and/or training.