Keeping python code and database in sync

[Frank Millman]

Hi all

Now that I have bitten the bullet and published my repository, I am forced 
to change my working practices (which is a good thing!).

The project is inherently database-driven. The python code expects to find 
certain tables and columns in the database. As I develop new features, I 
sometimes need to modify the database structure. In the bad old days (like 
yesterday) I would just make the modifications and carry on. Now I have to 
be aware that others may have downloaded the project, so I have to consider 
how to ensure that their database is kept up to date.

It is a simple matter to write a program that updates the database 
automatically. The question is, what should trigger such an update? My first 
thought is to use a version number - store a version number in the working 
directory, and have a matching number in the code. If someone downloads the 
latest version, the numbers will no longer match, and I can run the upgrade 
program.

The problem with that is that version numbers are usually reserved for 
tagged releases, but this could happen as the result of any commit in the 
current development cycle.

Any suggestions?

Frank Millman