Module 1: Introduction to IBM Rational ClearQuest

• Overview of IBM Rational ClearQuest:
  • Introduction to the Rational suite of tools.
  • ClearQuest’s role in the software development lifecycle.
  • Key features: change request management, defect tracking, and workflow automation.
• User Interface (UI) Overview:
  • Navigating the ClearQuest interface.
  • The ClearQuest Client (Windows-based client).
  • The ClearQuest Web Interface.

Module 2: Basic Operations in ClearQuest

• Creating and Managing Records:
  • Creating and logging change requests, incidents, and defects.
  • Managing record lifecycles (e.g., open, closed, in progress).
• Basic Querying:
  • Searching and filtering records using predefined queries.
  • Saving and sharing queries.
• Working with Records:
  • Editing and updating records.
  • Assigning records to users.
  • Changing the status of a record (e.g., from “open” to “resolved”).

Module 3: Advanced Querying and Reporting

• Custom Queries:
  • Using the Query Builder to create custom queries.
  • Writing SQL-based queries for advanced searches.
  • Filtering records based on custom criteria (date, status, priority, etc.).
• Reporting in ClearQuest:
  • Overview of report generation tools.
  • Generating predefined and custom reports.
  • Using ClearQuest’s built-in report generation tools to visualize data and track progress.

Module 4: Workflow Management in ClearQuest

• Understanding Workflows:
  • What is a workflow and how is it used in ClearQuest?
  • Types of workflows (simple and advanced).
  • How workflows govern the lifecycle of records.
• Customizing Workflows:
  • Configuring workflows and states for various record types.
  • Managing transitions between workflow states.
  • Defining actions triggered by state changes (e.g., sending email notifications).
• Using Triggers:
  • Creating and managing triggers that automate actions.
  • Example triggers: sending notifications or updating fields when certain conditions are met.

Module 5: ClearQuest Administration

• Installing ClearQuest:
  • Setting up ClearQuest Server and Client.
  • Installing and configuring ClearQuest on various platforms.
• Database Management:
  • Managing ClearQuest databases.
  • Backups and restore processes.
  • Database schema configuration.
• User Management and Security:
  • Managing user accounts, roles, and permissions.
  • Creating and managing user groups.
  • Implementing security policies.

Module 6: Customization in ClearQuest

• Custom Fields and Types:
  • Creating and managing custom fields (text, date, list, etc.).
  • Defining record types and customizing form layouts.
  • Mapping fields to support your development process.
• Schema Customization:
  • What are schemas, and how do they influence ClearQuest behavior?
  • Customizing schemas for different workflows and types.
  • Deploying and importing schemas.

Module 7: Integration with Other Tools

• ClearQuest and IBM Rational ClearCase:
  • Integrating ClearQuest with ClearCase for version control and change management.
  • Linking records between ClearQuest and ClearCase.
• Integrating with External Tools:
  • Integrating ClearQuest with third-party tools like Jira, Jenkins, and Git.
  • Using ClearQuest API for advanced integrations.

Module 8: ClearQuest Best Practices

• Optimizing Performance:
  • Tips for improving the performance of the ClearQuest system.
  • Troubleshooting common issues in ClearQuest.
• Best Practices for Change Management:
  • Establishing best practices for record lifecycle management.
  • Standardizing workflows and queries to streamline usage.
  • Defining clear guidelines for users.

Module 9: IBM Rational ClearQuest in Agile Environments

• ClearQuest in Agile and Scrum:
  • Setting up ClearQuest for Agile projects.
  • Managing sprints and backlogs using ClearQuest.
  • Tracking issues and defects in Agile projects.