A system for assembling an update for a software release is described, comprising a processor and memory configured to define classes of software components, each class having a plurality of instances, each instance having a unique identifier (UID) and representing a software component having a plurality of versions; for each version of the software component, assign time stamps and indicator identifying release status of the version; introduce a flexible coupling between versions of software components and instances of classes using a pointer between a version of the software component and a UID associated with the version; select versions of software components from which pointers originate; for each instance of the class, to which the pointer points, select one version of the software component based on the assigned indicator; and assemble the selected versions of software components into the update of the software release. A corresponding method is also provided.