If your team is developing a large software product consisting of many applications, you need to assign the following roles based on the responsibilities each member holds:

Team members often fill more than one role. Your team should assign the roles of configuration map manager and application manager to members who are responsible for integrating components and who understand how the components should interrelate. Manager roles typically go to members who coordinate the work of many developers. Depending on the size and complexity of the product, your team might have one configuration map manager and an application manager for each application. Generally, the configuration map manager assigns application managers.

An application manager can assign class ownership within an application. The manager should assign owners who understand the purpose and contents of the classes and who can take responsibility for making, or at least approving, any needed fixes. To preserve class integrity over time, it is helpful if the manager appoints class owners who can fulfill their responsibilities for the duration of the project.