Application Packaging Developer's Guide

The Process of Building a Package (Task Map)

Table 2–1 describes a process for you to follow when building packages, especially if you are inexperienced at building them. Although it is not mandatory for you to complete the first four tasks in the exact order listed, your package building experience will be easier if you do. Once you are an experienced package designer, you can shuffle the sequence of these tasks to your preference.

As an experienced package designer, you can automate the package building process by using the make command and makefiles. For more information, see the make(1S) man page.

Table 2–1 The Process of Building a Package Task Map


Task	Description	For Instructions
1. Create a `pkginfo` file	Create the `pkginfo` file to describe the characteristics of the package.	How to Create a `pkginfo` File
2. Organize package contents	Arrange the package components into a hierarchical directory structure.	Organizing a Package's Contents
3. (optional) Create information files	Define package dependencies, include a copyright message, and reserve additional space on the target system.	Chapter 3, Enhancing the Functionality of a Package (Tasks)
4. (optional) Create installation scripts	Customize the installation and removal processes of the package.	Chapter 3, Enhancing the Functionality of a Package (Tasks)
5. Create a `prototype` file	Describe the object in your package in a `prototype` file.	Creating a `prototype` File
6. Build the package	Build the package by using the `pkgmk` command.	Building a Package
7. Verify and transfer the package	Verify the integrity of the package before copying it to a distribution medium.	Chapter 4, Verifying and Transferring a Package