Dameware MSI Builder

Purpose & User Intent: Dameware MSI Builder solves the need to create repeatable Windows Installer packages for Dameware components in enterprise IT. It targets IT admins, software packaging engineers, and deployment teams; used during new releases or fleet-wide upgrades to ensure consistent install media.
Core Logic & Features: The tool defines a packaging model with required inputs (ProductName, Version, Architecture, UpgradeCode, component_manifest) and optional/advanced options (custom actions, dependencies, signing, localization). It builds MSI via a manifest-driven workflow, applies Windows Installer conventions for upgrades (ProductCode changes for major upgrades, UpgradeCode preserved), and can sign artifacts.
Inputs & Outputs: Required inputs include product name, version, architecture, and a list of components; outputs include an MSI, optional MSPs, and a build manifest plus logs. Validation enforces semver, non-empty name, and unique UpgradeCode.
Algorithms & Calculations: It computes ProductCode and UpgradeCode if missing, derives major upgrade paths, and assembles features, components, and registries; signing uses provided certificate; the process adheres to Windows Installer rules and localization readiness via MSI resources.
Error & Edge Cases: Handles missing inputs, invalid version formats, conflicting component IDs, and missing certificates for signing; returns detailed build logs and artifact-level exit codes; degrades gracefully when external tools are unavailable.
Industry/Region & Localization: Aligns with Windows Installer standards; supports localization via MSI localization data; defaults to US locale with optional bilingual/resource packs.
Assumptions & Exclusions: Assumes valid Dameware component vaults and rights to package; excludes non-Windows targets, non-Dameware components, and non-install media packaging.