Release cycles

It is said that the initial development of a typical software system only accounts for 20% of the total system, meaning that additional enhancements introduced after the first release can account for as much as an additional four times the amount of software development. For projects that are anything other than a simple straightforward system such as a brochure style website, this can become a serious issue because clients without an understanding of software release cycles will want everything in the first release. This can lead to over ambitious expectations, ongoing changes and constant additions to the specification that keep delaying the first release. Ultimately, this risks the system being released too late; whether in terms of the market opportunity already having passed or of the potential to make savings in the client's operations.

How often?

It's a fine balance when deciding how often to release new versions of the software you are being hired to develop. Getting...