PMC proposals/Pre-releases
2011/02/08 #2: Pre-releases
Summary
We propose to switch to the 'release early, release often' model, by adopting '-alpha' and '-pre' versions.
The discussion leading to this proposal may be read in this thread.
Proposed by: Jimregan
Seconded by:
In Detail
Releases of linguistic data are quite few and far between. Mostly, this is due to a quite intensive quality control process (testvoc), which is typically carried out by a single person, alone. We wish to start releasing 'pre-releases', to both make data available in a more timely fashion, and to solicit help and feedback for quality control (when it is most needed).
We propose that these releases may contain either an '-alpha' or '-pre' tag, for situations where the likely full release date is unknown, and known, respectively.
Alpha releases are intended for packages which, for external reasons, are not yet fully operational, but where external assistance is needed.
Pre-releases are intended for packages which, aside from testvoc, are ready for public consumption, to seek help in testing.
Caveats
- Pre-releases are intended to be for testing only. Other than for routine testing matters (i.e., testvoc), and matters which could not reasonably be foreseen, they are expected to be release ready.
- Alpha releases are intended for situations where a pre-release is hindered by external factors: where some factor beyond the control of the developer (a missing tool, lack of linguistic information) prevents the completion of a pre-release. These factors must be described in an 'ISSUES' file.
Comments
Comments on the proposal are welcome. Please sign your comments using ~~~~
- There should be a list of requirements for both pre- and alpha-. And this should be included in the proposal. - Francis Tyers 12:46, 9 February 2011 (UTC)
Voting
Please note that voting is only open to PMC members. Please vote by signing (~~~) in the relevant section.
