Database Validation & Certification

[MarkRichards]

Hello,

I recently upgraded to the latest build of InstallAware (v6.22) and I noticed that the Validate Database tool doesn't appear to support the Windows Vista Logo program.

How can I be certain that my InstallAware generated setup will successfully pass the Certified for Windows Vista installation suite of tests?

Thanks for your time.

[MichaelNesmith]

The latest Windows SDK (6.0 for Vista) validation files (*.cub) have been added to the latest InstallAware installer.

I believe if you run the full MSI validation suite, you should be covered.

If you find an alternate .cub file explicitly for Vista somewhere, please pass it on so we can add it in as well! There's just nothing in the official Vista SDK so far, as far as we know.

[MarkRichards]

Hi Michael,

Thanks for yet another prompt response; it's greatly appreciated.

I'm currently working with an organization (retained by Microsoft directly) to assist me in getting one of our software products Certified for Windows Vista. Their suggestion to me was that I use InstallShield v12 because they "know" that it can produce compliant installation packages. Obviously I told them about InstallAware (and my preference for it), and they expressed some concern only because they're not terribly familiar with it.

The core issue I have is one of limited time and resources with regard to the certification process. It's very important to choose the right installation technology provider "out of the gate" so as not to delay matters. As such, I'd like to ask the following:

- Do you currently have customers that have passed Windows Vista certification with IA installed products? If so, roughly how many?

- If I have any problems getting Vista Certification with IA, will you be committed to helping me resolve them quickly, and at no cost to our our company?

Let me be absolutely clear here. I prefer InstallAware, and appreciate the responsiveness and dedication of your organization. I DO NOT want to switch to InstallShield (let's just say I'm not a big fan). But "Vista time" is upon us, and I need assurances that Vista certification is unconditionally supported with IA.

Besides, we have to work together to get these certification consulting firms to stop recommending InstallShield to ISVs.

[MichaelNesmith]

It is very disappointing to hear that InstallShield would be recommended over other products for this certification InstallAware builds fully compliant setup packages, and our legal department could have some work at their hands if consulting companies are involved in some kind of FUD

If you run into issues during certification that are caused by InstallAware, you can rest assured we will resolve them for you ASAP, and without charge. This is our promise to you.

I believe I am aware of two vendors who have obtained Vista certification using InstallAware. Should be smooth sailing.

[MarkRichards]

Hi Michael,

I don't believe these folks are interested in advocating any particular installation technology provider; they're just recommending what they know best, which is InstallShield. I'm certain that once our software obtains certification status, they'll have a stronger sense of confidence in IA.

Thank you for your re-assurances.

[MichaelNesmith]

Well, you make it sound like your installer would be the first to get the Vista certification with an InstallAware setup We've had others beat you to it I'm afraid

[MarkRichards]

Nope, not suggesting that our software is the first to achieve Vista Certification with IA. Simply suggesting that it might be the first of which this consulting firm is aware.