Planning and Requirements

Defining project objectives, gathering requirements, creating a release plan.

Design and Development

Creating system architecture, designing user interfaces, developing code, and implementing features based on requirements.

Testing

Conducting various testing phases such as unit tests, integration tests, and user acceptance testing to ensure software quality and identify bugs.

Release Candidate

Performing final checks for stability, ensuring the software is ready for release but not yet deployed to users.

Production

Deploying the software, monitoring performance, handling user feedback, providing maintenance, and delivering updates.

Post-Release

Gathering user feedback, analyzing metrics, planning future releases, and preparing for the end of life for the software version.

# Software Release Life Cycle

The software release life cycle is a structured process that governs how software products are developed, tested, deployed, and ultimately retired from use. It provides a clear roadmap for teams to follow, ensuring that each phase is completed before moving on to the next. This lifecycle helps in managing expectations, collaboration, and quality assurance throughout the software development process.

## Stages of Development

The journey through the software release life cycle is divided into several distinct stages, each serving a specific purpose and contributing to the overall success of the product.

### Pre-alpha
The pre-alpha stage is the initial phase where the basic architecture and core functionality are established. This stage focuses on setting up the foundation of the software, ensuring that all essential components are in place. It’s crucial for laying the groundwork upon which future development will build.

### Alpha
Following the pre-alpha phase comes the alpha testing stage. During this phase, the software is tested internally within the development team to identify and resolve any critical issues or flaws in the system. This phase ensures that the product is solid enough to move forward with more extensive testing.

### Feature-complete
Once the basic functionality meets all the required features, the software reaches feature-complete status. At this point, the focus shifts towards refining the user experience and preparing for more comprehensive testing phases.

### Beta
The beta stage involves testing the software with a selected group of external users, such as beta testers or customers who have expressed interest in the product. This phase is vital for gathering feedback that can lead to significant improvements and iterations.

### Perpetual beta
In some cases, particularly with rapid release cycles, a perpetual beta model is adopted. This means that the software remains in a continuous testing phase, with updates and new features being released frequently. The goal here is to continuously improve based on ongoing user feedback.

### Open and closed beta
Open beta allows any interested members of the public to participate in testing, often on a first-come-first-serve basis or through specific channels. Closed beta, on the other hand, is limited to a selected group of users, such as those who have signed up for updates or are part of a loyalty program.

### Release candidate
As the software approaches its final release, it enters the release candidate phase. This stage involves making minor adjustments and optimizations based on feedback from previous testing phases. The goal here is to ensure that the product is ready for the broader audience.

### Stable release
After thorough testing and refinement, the software reaches its stable release phase. This is the official launch, where the product becomes available to all customers or end-users.

### Release
The release process involves making the software available through various channels, such as retail stores, digital platforms, or cloud services. This stage ensures that the product is accessible to the target audience in a timely and efficient manner.

### Release to manufacturing (RTM)
Once the software is deemed ready for distribution, it undergoes the release to manufacturing phase. This involves packaging, duplication, and distribution processes to make the product available to customers.

### General availability (GA)
General availability signifies that the software is now available to all users upon request. Customers can purchase or download the product from official channels, with full support and updates provided as needed.

### Release to the Web (RTW)
For web-based applications, the release to the web involves deploying the software on servers and making it accessible via the internet. This stage ensures that users can access the product remotely.

### Support
Support is a critical component of the software lifecycle, providing assistance to users during and after the release phase. This includes troubleshooting, updates, patches, and general customer service support.

### End-of-life
The end-of-life phase marks the conclusion of the software's lifecycle, when official support is discontinued. This decision may be based on factors such as outdated technology, security concerns, or market demands.

### History
The software release life cycle has evolved over time, adapting to changes in technology and development practices. Early models were often fluid and less structured, but with advancements in project management and the need for higher quality standards, more defined processes have been developed.

### See Also
- **Software Development Life Cycle**: A broader overview of the process that includes additional stages like design and planning.
- **Project Management**: The role of project management in coordinating the release lifecycle.
- **Agile Software Development**: A specific methodology within the software release life cycle that emphasizes iterative development and collaboration.

### References
1. Wikipedia: "Software release life cycle"
2. "Understanding the Software Life Cycle" - Tech Republic
3. "The Agile Manifesto" - Agile Alliance
Sources: Source .