There are many times when we need to compare two or more files for changes between them. This is especially true for upgrades. Checking to see what has changed in a script, form, etc in an upgrade bundle from what you have in your system can be a critical task in finding the path of least resistance in getting your changes brought into an upgraded form or script.
In the SalesLogix 7.2.2 Application Architect there is now built in support for using a differencing tool of choice to compare and preserve changes when upgrading. While the docs mention in several places the use of BeyondCompare as an example of a differencing tool to use, I don’t particularly care for BeyondCompare. Don’t get me wrong, it is a great tool, but it isn’t the only one out there. I prefer the free differencing tool from SourceGear, DiffMerge. That’s right, SourceGear, makers of Vault (source code version control tool), has a differencing tool, and it’s FREE.
Screenshots (click for larger view)
Product Features
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Diff. Graphically shows the changes between two files. Includes intra-line highlighting and full support for editing.
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Merge. Graphically shows the changes between 3 files. Allows automatic merging (when safe to do so) and full control over editing the resulting file.
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Folder Diff. Performs a side-by-side comparison of 2 folders, showing which files are only present in one file or the other, as well as file pairs which are identical or different.
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Windows Explorer Integration. Right-click on any two files in Windows Explorer to diff them immediately.
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Configurable. Rulesets and options provide for customized appearance and behavior.
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International. Compatible with 42 different character encodings.
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Cross-platform. Identical feature set on Windows, Mac OS X, and Unix.
For a free product, it sure is loaded. I prefer the visual layout that DiffMerge provides to BeyondCompare’s as well. It is a great tool and one that anyone that intends to upgrade their 7.2 Web going forward needs to have.
So, on a related note – what do you think of Vault for source code control?