ClearCase source control — also known as IBM ClearCase or Rational ClearCase — was once cutting-edge technology. Although many teams still use it, its popularity is waning. If you're still using ClearCase, it might be time to consider migrating to a new source control tool.
Use this guide to learn:
- ClearCase Basics
- Compare ClearCase Source Control
- ClearCase Migration Tips
- Compare Source Control Options
ClearCase Basics
If you just joined a company using ClearCase source control, you may not be aware of how it works. Review our ClearCase basics and ClearCase commands cheat sheet.
Architecture
ClearCase source control uses a file-based architecture where “elements” (files and directories) are versioned independently in repositories called Versioned Object Bases (VOBs).
Monolithic Codebase
If you are using ClearCase software, you more than likely have a monolith codebase to contain all your legacy code and version history.
Replication
To attempt to scale ClearCase source control, teams can add on ClearCase Multisite. But this adds a lot of complexity.
Branching
ClearCase branching is done at the file level. ClearCase UCM can add a later on top to aid in branching and merging, but it often restricts teams.
Security
Permissions in ClearCase software are enforced at the file/directory level. But these permissions are tied to the OS, making it difficult to manage complex rules across multiple platforms (e.g., Windows, Linux, Mac).
Learn ClearCase Source Control Basics
Back to topFor teams with ClearCase software, there are challenges. Lack of support. Lack of updates. Slow performance. Complicated replication and branching. This leaves many teams looking for a new solution.
Compare ClearCase Source Control
There are a lot of version control systems out there. How are they similar? What makes them different?
ClearCase vs. SVN
ClearCase and SVN have historically been popular version control systems. But they present challenges for teams, especially as they scale.
ClearCase vs. Git
There are a lot of differences between ClearCase and Git. While they both offer teams the ability to branch and merge, there are key differences. If you have a huge codebase, you need to make sure your new solution can handle it.
ClearCase vs. Perforce
ClearCase and Perforce P4 are both used by big teams working on bigger projects. But where one slows down, the other doesn’t. Learn why three teams made the switch (and how much they saved).
Compare Source Control Solutions
Learn more about these version control systems and choose the right option for your team.
Back to topMigrating from ClearCase Software?
If you are looking to leave ClearCase source control behind, P4 — version control from Perforce — is the best solution. Why? P4 gives you:
- Single source of truth for all code, large binary files, and digital assets.
- Scalable architecture to keep global teams in sync without the added cost like ClearCase Multisite.
- Enterprise-grade security, including SSO, AD/LDAP, and MFA.
- Customizable, automated workflows — including Perforce Streams for branching.
- Immutable change history to satisfy audit and compliance needs.
Migrating from ClearCase doesn’t need to be costly. You move your monorepo, modernize it, and decide what that new architecture is going to look like.
Webinars
Learn from our experts. These videos cover the important considerations and steps to follow when migrating from ClearCase to P4.
5 Reasons to Replace ClearCase or SVN to Future-Proof Embedded Development
In this on-demand webinar, Perforce CTO Brad Hart and Senior Director of Sales Engineering Gerhard Krüger dive into 5 reasons it’s time for embedded development teams to migrate from their legacy data management system to a scalable, future-proof solution.
How to Migrate from SVN or ClearCase to P4
In this detailed video, our experts demonstrate how you can seamlessly move from your legacy DM to Perforce P4. Using real examples, they will walk through the steps to migrate existing and in-progress projects to Perforce P4 efficiently.
Replacing ClearCase: Lessons Learned from Cadence Design Systems
Making the switch from ClearCase to P4 without losing years of data requires a careful process. Learn firsthand from those who have already done it.
Read the Legacy Platform eBook
Learn why now is the time to upgrade your legacy system and create a foundation of data management that will scale with your organization. Our eBook, Why Modern Businesses are Moving Away from Legacy Data Management, walks you through the reasons to finally say goodbye to your outdated platform.
ClearCase Source Control Migration Guide
Check out our step-by-step guide to see how much time
(and money) you can save.