What is Release Management?

Release Management is the process of planning, scheduling and controlling the release of new or updated version of a software. Its main objective is to ensure successful software releases and minimise disruptions to business operations. A release may include new features, software updates, security patches, or fixes.  

Six steps of release management process

1. Request: The process begins when someone request for new feature or change. The team evaluates every request to see if it is possible and whether it is necessary.
2. Plan: Organizes the work in a way that the team understands what has to be done, who has to do it, and when.
3. Design & Build: Developers write the code and new program developed based on the plan.
4. Testing: Once the software is developed, it is tested by the team in a particular test environment.
5. Deployment: Once the software is released, and users can install and utilize it. Teams also educate users about using any new capability
6. Post-deployment: After the release goes live, the support team takes care of any issues.

Objective of Release Management

• Guarantees business experience better product releases.
• Reduces errors and problems in the software.
• Improves collaboration among development, testing, operations, and business teams.
• Strengthen visibility, control and accountability throughout the release lifecycle.