Build and Release Interview Questions

by Jose
(Miami, Florida, USA)

Build and Release Interview Questions

I have three questions that I think reveal a lot about the candidate:

Describe the Benefits of Automating the Software Builds

If they struggle to even describe the reasons for automating the build, I feel I have a pretty good idea they do not have much experience.

I look for the following:

* Software Build Reproducibility
* Change Trace Ability
* Build Efficiency

Software Development Process

I am looking to find out if they have worked in more than one SDP. It shows that they have a broader background and can adjust to an ever changing Software Development Field.

Can you Describe the Important Aspects of Release Management

I am looking for the candidate to describe the importance of software installation repeatability. I like to have them describe a couple of the following:

* Fully Automated Installation Processes
* Fully Automated Uninstall Process
* Installation Documentation
* Testing Process for Newly Installed Software

Of course, I will also flow with the interview a little. It is just kind of a feeling I get from the candidate.