31 SCM Tools Changing The Game Of 2024
10 Best SCM Tools Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 31 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
In the bustling world of software engineering, the value of solid software configuration management tools cannot be overstated. Whether you're juggling multiple projects, coordinating a vast team, or simply striving for greater efficiency, these tools are the backbone of effective development.
Software configuration management tools provide a systematic approach to controlling and tracking changes in your software. The magic also lies in their ability to automate, streamline, and standardize procedures, leading to higher productivity and reduced risk of errors.
We all know the headache that comes with mismanaged software configurations - version control nightmares, buggy releases, and countless hours wasted on troubleshooting. With the right software configuration management tools in your corner, these problems become a thing of the past.
Need expert help selecting the right tool?
With one-on-one help, we guide you to your top software options. Narrow down your software search & make a confident choice.
What Is The SCM Tool?
Software Configuration Management (SCM) tools are essential mechanisms software developers, IT teams, and project managers utilize. These tools also streamline the process of tracking and controlling software changes, essentially managing all the components that form part of a software product or system. These tools enable clear visibility of the configuration landscape, foster consistent environments, and control software development activities.
They handle tasks such as version control, build automation, and change management, serving as the backbone for effective software development, deployment, and maintenance. By integrating these tools into their workflow, teams can improve efficiency, reduce errors, maintain quality standards, and ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
Best SCM Tools Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| GitHub | From $4/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| BackBox | Pricing upon request | Website |
| CloudBees | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Experlogix CPQ | Pricing upon request | Website |
| N-able N-central RMM | Pricing upon request | Website |
| ManageEngine | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| ServiceNow IT Service Management | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Azure Automation & Control | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Cincom CPQ | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Hashicorp Terraform | Pricing upon request | Website |
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Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest SCM Tools Reviews
GitHub provides a robust web-based platform for collaborative code management, serving as a version control repository that hosts Git repositories. Also, it aids developers in coordinating, tracking, and updating changes to projects, making it an excellent tool for collaborative code management and version control.
Why I Picked GitHub:
I chose GitHub because it stands out for its wide acceptance in the developer community and comprehensive version control system. Its ability to foster effective collaboration on code projects sets it apart. It also executes various operating systems like Windows, Linux, Docker, OSX, and FreeBSD. Consequently, GitHub stands as the best tool for any development team seeking a reliable, industry-standard platform for code management and version control.
Standout features and integrations:
GitHub's key features include collaborative code review, project management, integrations, team management, and social coding. It's not just a repository but also a powerful tool for project management and collaboration. Notably, GitHub offers integrations with various popular platforms such as Slack, AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, CFEngine, and many others, enabling seamless coordination between different tools.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Effective for team collaboration and project management
- Wide range of integrations with other tools
- High level of community involvement
Cons:
- Private repositories require a paid plan
- The interface might be overwhelming due to numerous features
- Can be complex for beginners
BackBox is a leading solution specializing in network device backup and recovery. It offers automation that significantly reduces manual labor, reduces risks, and increases efficiency in any network environment. Given its focus on automated network backup and recovery, it's best suited for organizations seeking robust, automated solutions to safeguard their critical network infrastructures.
Why I Picked BackBox:
BackBox caught my attention for its commitment to automating network device backup and recovery, a task that can be tedious and critical for businesses. I selected it due to its distinctive emphasis on network devices, setting it apart from more generalized software configuration softwares. Its automation capability significantly reduces the risk of human error in backup and recovery tasks. Hence, it's the best solution for network device backup and recovery.
Standout features and integrations:
BackBox offers impressive features such as automated backup, device configuration, and task scheduling for network devices. It also provides centralized management and intelligent analytics for proactively detecting network infrastructure problems. Moreover, the software has powerful integrations with numerous network device vendors including Cisco, Juniper, and Check Point, ensuring broad compatibility and flexibility in diverse network environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad compatibility with multiple network device vendors
- Offers extensive automation features
- Specializes in network device backup and recovery
Cons:
- Limited utility beyond network device backup and recovery
- It might be overkill for small-scale network environments
- Pricing information is not transparent.
CloudBees provides an enterprise-level Jenkins platform aimed at automating software delivery processes. Its focus on CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery) is a valuable asset to teams wanting to streamline software development workflows. Its affinity for CI/CD pipelines also makes it a top choice for businesses that need to manage and accelerate these processes.
Why I Picked CloudBees:
CloudBees was an obvious choice for this list due to its prowess in managing CI/CD processes. Its robust Jenkins platform caught my attention, making it stand out from other SCM tools. I selected CloudBees because it manages, controls, and optimizes CI/CD pipelines effectively, making it a prime pick for businesses focusing on these practices.
Standout features and integrations:
CloudBees offers powerful features like Jenkins-based CI/CD pipeline creation, automation, and management. It also provides visibility into delivery pipelines and measures performance across teams. Integrations with many development, testing, and deployment tools such as GitHub, GitLab, Docker, and Kubernetes, allow for seamless orchestration across different stages of software development and delivery.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- A wide array of integrations with development and deployment tools
- Robust Jenkins-based platform
- Specializes in managing and accelerating CI/CD pipelines
Cons:
- Requires knowledge of Jenkins for maximum benefit
- Overhead might be high for small projects or teams.
- Pricing information is not readily available.
Experlogix CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) is a software tool that provides robust functionality to aid businesses in managing complex product configurations, pricing, and quote generation. Given its highly specialized features in handling complex quoting and proposal configuration, it offers an optimal solution for businesses that require a deep level of customization and control over these processes.
Why I Picked Experlogix CPQ:
I chose Experlogix CPQ due to its ability to effectively manage complex quoting scenarios, which is something many businesses struggle with. Its standout attribute is its configurator which can handle multi-dimensional product configuration scenarios, something that sets it apart from other CPQ solutions. For businesses dealing with complex quotes and proposal configurations, Experlogix CPQ serves as a robust tool tailored to manage this complexity.
Standout features and integrations:
Experlogix CPQ offers a robust set of features such as guided selling, dealer and distributor quoting, and rule-based configurations. Additionally, it has strong visualization capabilities that allow users to see product configurations in real-time. In terms of integrations, Experlogix CPQ connects with major CRM and ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, and Netsuite, ensuring comprehensive compatibility across various business systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced visualization capabilities for real-time product configurations
- Strong integration with major CRM and ERP systems
- Provides a robust set of features for complex quote configurations
Cons:
- Limited features for smaller businesses that do not require complex configurations
- It might have a learning curve for new users
- Custom pricing model may not be transparent for all businesses
N-able N-central RMM (Remote Monitoring & Management) is a tool designed to help manage and monitor IT systems remotely. It provides a comprehensive set of tools to maintain, secure, and improve IT operations, which makes it particularly useful for businesses that require strong remote monitoring and management capabilities.
Why I Picked N-able N-central RMM:
I picked N-able N-central RMM for its robust set of features geared towards remote monitoring and management. Its powerful automation capabilities and advanced monitoring features set it apart from other tools in the market. Given the increasing need for remote IT management, this tool's focus on this particular aspect positions it as the best choice for businesses in need of remote monitoring and management.
Standout features and integrations:
Among N-able N-central RMM's most noteworthy features are its automation manager, remote access and control tools, and security manager. The platform also boasts extensive reporting capabilities. In terms of integrations, N-able N-central RMM can seamlessly connect with a variety of popular business tools such as ConnectWise Manage, Autotask PSA, and many others, providing the connectivity needed to streamline IT operations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integrations with popular business tools
- Provides a comprehensive toolset for remote IT management
- Extensive automation and advanced monitoring capabilities
Cons:
- Some users report a steep learning curve
- Might be overwhelming for smaller businesses due to its extensive features
- Pricing is not transparent and is provided upon request
ManageEngine is an IT management platform that provides comprehensive ITIL-based services, including a robust configuration management database (CMDB). The software is proficient in identifying and managing IT assets and ensuring they adhere to ITIL standards, qualifying it as an optimal solution for organizations seeking ITIL-based configuration management.
Why I Picked ManageEngine:
ManageEngine made it to my selection due to its holistic approach to IT management, anchored by a robust ITIL framework. What sets it apart is its comprehensive CMDB that also aids in managing and tracking IT assets across their life cycles. Considering its ability to harmonize ITIL-based configuration management processes, I firmly believe ManageEngine is a top choice for organizations aiming to streamline their ITIL adherence.
Standout features and integrations:
ManageEngine offers essential features such as IT asset discovery, configuration item relationship mapping, and impact analysis. Additionally, it provides compliance management, change management, and problem management. When it comes to integrations, ManageEngine provides interoperability with various IT management tools, and can also sync with third-party software like SCCM for expanded functionality.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration capabilities with third-party software.
- Comprehensive feature set for configuration management.
- Strong alignment with ITIL processes.
Cons:
- Configurations might be complex and time-consuming.
- It might have a steep learning curve for some users.
- Pricing isn't transparent and requires contacting the company.
Best for comprehensive IT service management in one platform
ServiceNow IT Service Management is a solution that enables businesses to consolidate fragmented IT tools into a single, modern service management solution. Its broad set of capabilities includes IT service management, IT operations management, and IT business management, which makes it suitable for companies looking for a comprehensive IT service management solution on one platform.
Why I Picked ServiceNow IT Service Management:
My selection of ServiceNow IT Service Management came from the tool's ability to centralize and streamline IT processes. Also, it provides a single system of action that replaces many disparate solutions, reducing complexity and increasing efficiency. Its comprehensive offering and the power to bring together different aspects of IT service management make it the best choice for businesses requiring an extensive IT service management solution.
Standout features and integrations:
ServiceNow IT Service Management stands out with features such as incident, problem, and change management, IT asset management, and service catalog. Additionally, it offers AI-powered IT operations for proactive issue resolution and predictive analytics. The platform integrates with a wide range of IT and business applications such as SAP, Oracle, Jira, Slack, and many more, providing the flexibility and connectivity that businesses need to manage their IT ecosystem effectively.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with other IT and business applications
- Offers robust artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning capabilities for IT operations
- Provides a single platform for comprehensive IT service management
Cons:
- Does not have public pricing, which can be a barrier for small businesses
- Some users find the interface to be less intuitive
- The highly customizable nature may require more setup time
Best for those needing powerful control tools in the Azure environment
Azure Automation & Control delivers comprehensive management across Azure resources, assisting businesses in reducing errors and boosting efficiency. It's a fitting solution for organizations requiring robust control tools in their Azure environment. This native compatibility with Azure ensures smooth and efficient configuration management.
Why I Picked Azure Automation & Control:
I selected Azure Automation & Control due to its powerful control capabilities specifically designed for the Azure environment. This tool also stands out for its deep integration and alignment with Azure services, which aids in the seamless management of Azure resources. Therefore, it's the optimal choice for organizations seeking robust control tools within the Azure ecosystem.
Standout features and integrations:
Azure Automation & Control possesses impressive features such as process automation, software configuration management (SCM), update management, and shared capabilities. It also helps manage operating systems, databases, and processes across Azure, on-premises, and third-party clouds. As for integrations, it seamlessly interfaces such as Azure Monitor, Azure Policy, Log Analytics, and other Azure services.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cost-effective, as you pay for what you use
- Broad range of control features
- Deep integration with Azure services
Cons:
- Pricing can be unpredictable, as it's based on usage
- Complexity can require a steep learning curve
- Less effective outside Azure environment
Cincom CPQ is an advanced configure-price-quote tool designed to enhance sales efficiency with guided selling and product configuration functionalities. It simplifies complex sales processes by providing real-time assistance for product selection and configuration, making it a standout tool for boosting sales operations.
Why I Picked Cincom CPQ:
I selected Cincom CPQ for its innovative approach to sales optimization. The tool's unique capacity to seamlessly guide users through the sales process, providing real-time product configuration assistance, gives it an edge. Also, given its unique blend of guided selling and dynamic product configuration, Cincom CPQ clearly fits as a choice solution for businesses looking to bolster their sales efforts.
Standout features and integrations:
Key features of Cincom CPQ include real-time guided selling, dynamic product configuration, pricing and quoting, and sales proposal generation. Its features make it an all-encompassing tool for managing intricate sales processes. Cincom CPQ integrates effectively with major CRM and ERP systems, including Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, and SAP, which extends its functionality and ease of use.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Enhances sales efficiency and reduces complexity in the sales process.
- Integrates with major CRM and ERP systems.
- Robust guided selling and product configuration features.
Cons:
- Customization could be challenging for non-technical users.
- There might be a learning curve for new users.
- The pricing model is not transparent.
HashiCorp Terraform is an open-source tool used for building, changing, and versioning infrastructure safely and efficiently. By transforming APIs into declarative configuration files, Terraform also allows for streamlined infrastructure management, making it best suited for organizations seeking to define and provide data center infrastructure using a declarative configuration language.
Why I Picked HashiCorp Terraform:
I selected Terraform for this list because of its innovative approach to infrastructure management. Unlike traditional software configuration management (SCM) systems, Terraform uses declarative language that describes an end state. Also, this makes it stand out as it provides the unique advantage of being cloud-agnostic, allowing the tool to support a multi-cloud strategy seamlessly.
Standout features and integrations:
Some key features of Terraform include infrastructure as code, execution plans, resource graphs, and change automation. In terms of integrations, Terraform supports a multitude of providers such as popular cloud-based solution platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, among others. This allows businesses to manage a diverse range of services and resources.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Open-source version available for free
- The declarative language allows for easy management and versioning of infrastructure.
- Supports a wide range of integrations with different providers.
Cons:
- The open-source version lacks some of the more advanced features available in the enterprise version.
- Debugging and error messages can sometimes be difficult to understand.
- There can be a steep learning curve for those new to infrastructure as code.
Other SCM Tools
Below is a list of additional SCM tools that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform
Best for extensive automation across the IT ecosystem
- AWS Config
Best for AWS environment due to its native compatibility
- SolarWinds Kiwi CatTools
Good for network configuration and change management
- Optimizely Web Experimentation
Good for conducting website A/B testing
- AWS OpsWorks
Good for managing applications of any scale
- AWS CodePipeline
Good for automating software release processes
- meshIQ
Good for managing and controlling mesh Wi-Fi networks
- Opsera
Good for orchestrating software delivery pipelines
- Puppet Enterprise
Good for automating infrastructure provisioning and management
- Progress Chef
Good for automating infrastructure management
- ConfigCat
Good for feature flag and configuration management
- Rational ClearCase
Good for version control in development environments
- Codenvy
Good for creating cloud-based developer workspaces
- Split
Good for feature flagging and managing experiments
- Bamboo
Good for continuous integration and delivery
- TeamCity
Good for continuous integration and build management
- SaltStack
Good for event-driven IT automation, remote task execution, and configuration management
- Rudder
Good for automating system configuration for large-scale IT infrastructures
- Octopus Deploy
Good for automating deployment for .NET applications
- Micro Focus AccuRev
Good for software configuration and version control
- Strongpoint
Good for automated documentation and compliance
Selection Criteria For SCM Tools
In the realm of software configuration management, I have personally ventured into exploring dozens of them. Ranging from trying out the tools to conducting extensive research on each, has enabled me to identify key selection criteria for such solutions. Here's what I found critical to consider:
Core Functionality
- Version Control: A robust system to track changes and manage different versions of the software.
- Change Management: Manage software changes with our tool - identify, document, implement, and validate modifications.
- Release Management: It should enable you to plan, schedule, and control software builds through various stages and environments, including deploying and delivering the software into production.
- Workflow Management: Capability to customize workflows according to your development process.
Key Features
- Integration: The ability to integrate seamlessly with other tools in your software development pipeline, such as build tools, testing frameworks, and deployment tools.
- Conflict Resolution: Features that aid in resolving conflicts when multiple users modify the same part of the software concurrently.
- Access Control: Security features to manage who has access to the software and what level of access they have.
- Reporting and Analysis: Detailed reporting features for providing insights into the state of the software and helping with decision-making.
Usability
- Intuitive User Interface: A configuration management tool should have a user-friendly interface with a visual display of software versions and easy navigation between them.
- Ease of Onboarding: The learning curve should not be steep. A comprehensive knowledge base, clear documentation, or a training program can make onboarding easier for users.
- Efficient Customer Support: Rapid and helpful customer support is crucial, especially when dealing with complex software issues.
- Scalability: The tool should be able to handle growth, meaning it can manage increasing amounts of work in a graceful manner, and is designed to accommodate growth.
Most Common Questions Regarding SCM Tools (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using software configuration management tools?
Utilizing software configuration management tools offer multiple benefits:
- Controlled Changes: These tools facilitate change management, allowing teams to make controlled changes with proper documentation.
- Version Management: These tools manage multiple versions of your software, ensuring easy retrieval and rollback in case of any issues.
- Conflict Resolution: They offer mechanisms to detect and resolve conflicts when concurrent changes occur.
- Traceability: They provide an audit trail of changes, promoting accountability and traceability.
- Integration: The tools can integrate with other software development tools, creating a streamlined, efficient development pipeline.
How much do software configuration management tools typically cost?
The cost of SCM tools varies widely based on the specific software, its features, and the pricing model. Some tools are free, especially those that are open-source, while others can cost several hundred dollars per user per month.
What are the pricing models for these tools?
There are several common pricing models for SCM tools:
- Per User: Pricing is based on the number of users who will be using the tool.
- Per Project: Pricing is based on the number of projects.
- Flat Rate: A fixed price that covers all features and users. Some tools offer a free tier with limited functionality or for small teams, and then scale up in cost for larger teams or more advanced features.
What is the typical range of pricing for SCM tools?
The typical range for paid software configuration management tools can start as low as $10 per user per month and can go up to $500 per user per month for high-end enterprise-level solutions. The cost often scales with the size of the team and the complexity of the project or projects being managed.
What are the cheapest and most expensive software configuration management tools?
At the low end of the scale, tools like Git, Mercurial, and Subversion are open-source and free to use. For high-end, enterprise-level tools, solutions like IBM Rational ClearCase and Perforce Helix Core can cost several hundred dollars per user per month.
Are there any free software configuration management tools?
Yes, there are a number of free, open-source tools available. Some of the most popular ones include Git, Mercurial, and Subversion. These tools may not have all the features offered by paid tools, but they are fully functional and widely used in the software development industry.
More SCM Tool Reviews
Summary
Choosing the ideal software configuration management tool can significantly improve your team's efficiency and product development process. A good SCM tool brings structure, transparency, and control to your software development cycle, managing changes, handling versions, and resolving conflicts effectively.
Here are three key takeaways for selecting the best tool for your needs:
- Understand Your Requirements: Every software has unique strengths. Some excel in version control, while others shine in their integration capabilities or usability features. The first step in choosing the right tool is understanding your specific needs and project requirements.
- Evaluate Pricing Models: Pricing structures for these tools can vary considerably. Some tools use a per-user or per-project pricing model, while others might charge a flat rate. Understanding the pricing models will allow you to choose a tool that offers the best value for your budget.
- Consider Usability: The effectiveness of an software is tied to its ease of use. A tool that offers a user-friendly interface, quick onboarding, and robust customer support can save your team a significant amount of time and reduce potential errors.
Navigating through the plethora of these SCM tools might feel overwhelming, but keeping these key points in mind will guide you towards making an informed decision, ultimately leading to a smoother, more controlled, and effective software development process.
What Do You Think?
I hope you find this guide helpful in your search for the perfect SCM tool. However, the technology landscape is vast and continually evolving, so it's possible that there are other excellent tools out there I haven't covered. If you're using an a tool that you believe deserves to be on this list, please share your experiences and recommendations. Your input could be invaluable to others in their search for the right tool.