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. | |
2. Organize package contents |
Arrange the package components into a hierarchical directory structure. | |
3. (optional) Create information files |
Define package dependencies, include a copyright message, and reserve additional space on the target system. | |
4. (optional) Create installation scripts |
Customize the installation and removal processes of the package. | |
5. Create a prototype file |
Describe the object in your package in a prototype file. | |
6. Build the package |
Build the package by using the pkgmk command. | |
7. Verify and transfer the package |
Verify the integrity of the package before copying it to a distribution medium. |