A developers work is never done. First you spend weeks honing your application, adjusting algorithms and polishing the user interface. But as soon as it's released, users immediately home in those slightly dodgy areas of code you'd hoped they wouldn't notice, and the first bug reports arrive.

Don't get too depressed, though -- every application has its problems. What's really important is to handle bug reports properly, and TestTrack Pro can help you do just that.

This starts by making sure you properly record the details of every bug (or "Defect", the term preferred by TestTrack Pro). The database lets you record a summary of each problem, details like who found it and when, steps required to reproduce it, and more. Whether you're relying on user reports, or doing testing yourself, this alone lets you build up a very good idea of any problem areas.

Understanding context is particularly important when diagnosing bugs, so TestTrack Pro lets you record details regarding your computer configuration. It's also possible to attach files to a particular defect (some corrupted data, perhaps), to aid in isolating the cause.

In large projects (or very buggy ones) this can quickly lead to a substantial database, but TestTrack Pro contains some useful management features. A number of search options make it easy to track down a particular defect, for instance, and it's possible to merge defects that refer to the same underlying issue.

Why splash out on an upgrade? Fully customisable workflow, perhaps, where you can define states, events, and state transition rules. You can use the Web or Windows client, without purchasing a separate license. Then there's even better custom field support, extra security options, and a host of other features and enhancements.

PCW readers can upgrade to a single-user or multi-user license of TestTrack Pro 6 and save 15% from the total value of your order, up until the end of March 2004. To upgrade, head to www.seapine.co.uk/pcwttp.html and quote 'PCW-TTP-51' when you order.