As we recently updated our release cycle strategy, I would like to share with you more information about it.
At Bonitasoft we release three types of product versions, following the semantic standard for versioning (http://semver.org/):
- Maintenance release: Version x.y.Z
- This version is released every two weeks and contains only bug fixes. The objective is to continuously fix bugs that interfere with your use of the platform.
- Minor release: Version x.Y.z
- This version is released every 6 months (except when there is a major release) and includes new features in the product. A beta version is shared with you a few months before the actual release, so you can have a first look at what’s coming, and give us feedback on the new features we’re building.
- Major release: Version X.z.y
- This version has no regularly scheduled release date like we have for maintenance or minor versions. Releasing a major version means we are bringing breakthrough innovative changes, and that’s only possible after a significant (and not always predictable) amount of work.
After testing different release scenarios, we’re happy with the process we have in place. The frequency of the maintenance release gives us flexibility to react quickly and fix bugs, which ensures a stable product.
Releasing a version that brings new features every 6 months gives us enough time to build valuable features and keep up-to-date with the new technologies.
Our next minor version is the Bonita BPM 7.4! It’s planned for the end of 2016 / beginning of 2017. You can expect to get your hands on a beta version this month, and we will communicate when that happens. For more information, visit our roadmap page on the community website.
We are closely monitoring this process and we will fine tune it as necessary. If that happens, I will keep you posted!
Lio