FAQ
What is a GTalkabout?
GTalkabout is software which allows source code notation and discussion among developers and end users.
What is a notation?
A notation is derived from the concept of reading and having the storyline commented. When one person reads a book, they may get a different opinion of the story. But, when there are notations within the book pointing to important aspects, this is when people are keyed into the main plot. Much like code, when you have several developers working through a project, some have specific goals and jobs.
When those developers aren't communicating, the project often takes a turn when one developer misinterprets what another had coded. So, using notations within the code help all developers within the project understand processes and why that particular string was coded in that method.
Source code must be precise. If one aspect is missing due to miscommunication or misinterpretation, the objects become full of bugs. This causes downtime and additional costs.
In order to use GTalkabout, there must be a server or platform which hosts the source code so that it can be shared across the network. This is why the Personal Edition is so valuable.
GTalkabout is version control software? Why are functions labeled a version control function?
GTalkabout is essentially version control software source code notation. It allows developers and end users to discuss the project and source code. Version control is so essential. GTalkabout is an internal notation process and integrates a graphical client version control. However, the core value is still source code notation.
Next, we'll explain why version control is indispensable to a project.
Why do we need version control to annotate and discuss source code?
Think about it this way: You have 100 people in a group photo. Now, look through all those smiling faces to try and find your friend. Somewhat difficult isn't it?
But let's say you were watching a video of those same 100 people. The camera is zooming in and around, and each time it moves you can instantly spot your friend.
The source code is like a video. It's "live" and continually changes.
Take for instance something you may have coded a month ago. Once coded you annotate the function, you might give it a new name, add a parameter or even remove a few functions. Keeping all of this information intact is integral and without version control you might as well start from scratch.
The video scenario is a good example of version control. The version is equivalent to the images, the source code is the notation of your friend in the video. When the source code changes direction, it produces yet another image. GTalkabout will dig out the notation, comparing and relocating to the latest position of your friends image.
Why use subversion control system?
Subversion is a central repository so while some developers want multiple copies, the problem lies in transitioning from SVN to a centralized version control system.
Will GTalkabout conflict with other subversion client systems?
Not at all. Actually within our team we also have installed the subversion command line client, TortoiseSVN software. Like all subversion clients, including SmartSVN, SyncSVN, VisualSVN, etc., we tested many and we found no conflict.
Subversion command line clients especially and TortoiseSVN, respectively, using the console and integrating into Windows Explorer provide some convenience which GTalkabout can't provide. On the other hand, the GTalkabout core value, the notation and discussion system, is better put to use as the console with which Windows Explorer is not good at.
Will GTalkabout support other version control?
GTalkabout will in the near future. GIT and mercurial will be integrated into GTalkabout.