Web Application Development Process: Release and Iterations. Step 7 of 7.
Continuous App Evolution
Transitioning from the rigorous phases of development and testing to the live environment marks a significant milestone in a web application's lifecycle. However, this move does not signify the end of the process. The 'Release and Iterations' phase represents the continuous commitment to the application’s evolution. This involves regular updates, refinements, expansions, and support to ensure the application is not just functional, but continually aligned with user needs and market trends.
Iterations are important for flexible web development as it allows for quick delivery of working software while adapting to changing requirements. It can improve quality, satisfaction, and risk management of web development projects while fostering creativity and collaboration.
Challenges such as complexity and overhead can be addressed with best practices like:
The way iteration is applied depends on the agile web development framework or methodology used to create successful projects that meet user expectations.
Iterating also reduces the risk of failure and scope creep, as you can prioritize the most important features for each iteration. But first things first. Let's briefly touch on the main points.
Web App Release
Before proceeding to the release, we ensure a complete backup of the current production environment is in place. This acts as our safety net, allowing us to have a clear rollback plan to restore the previous version of the application should any issues arise during the release.
When the time comes, we deploy the new version of the application to the production environment. We strategically choose off-peak hours for this step, aiming to minimize any impact on our users and allow for a seamless transition to the updated version.
Bug Fixing
After the release, our attention pivots to meticulous scrutiny for any issues — or bugs — that slipped past earlier stages of development or that emerge based on user interactions with the new release. Feedback from users is important for the continued development and refinement of the application, serving as a valuable resource for identifying areas for improvement. Therefore, bug reports from users, stakeholders, and internal teams are actively encouraged and highly valued.
Features Improvement
We also have to focus on refining, enhancing, and extending the current functionalities of the application. This is driven by insights gathered from user feedback, stakeholder input, performance metrics, or evolving business objectives. The goal of feature improvement is to continuously elevate the value that the application offers to its users, ensuring that the platform remains competitive.
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New Features Development
This phase is all about foresight—anticipating the needs of users and aligning with industry trends. From a thorough analysis of user feedback, we gather insights into what the users are seeking next. This isn’t about merely adding new elements; it's about thoughtfully integrating innovative functionalities that enhance the app's overall value proposition.?
Some of the Well-Known Examples
Illustrating how iteration works in web development, successful projects such as Spotify and Airbnb have utilized it.
Spotify uses Scrum as its agile framework and releases new versions of its software every week, assessing the impact and value with A/B testing, analytics, and user feedback. Additionally, they use Spotify Rhythm to plan, review, and align the goals of different squads, tribes, chapters, and guilds.
Airbnb utilizes a hybrid approach of Scrum and Kanban to create and improve its web and mobile platforms, dividing its development team into small groups called teams. DIBBs (Data, Insights, Brainstorm, Build, Ship) is used to guide their development cycle.
Ongoing Work on the App is Required
By using iterations, you can easily adapt to changing requirements, technology advancements, or shifting priorities. This flexibility ensures that the product remains aligned with evolving customer needs.?
And as the world changes, our web development roadmap is no static document; it is continually refined based on fresh insights and future projections, ensuring the application remains ahead of the curve.
We support our clients in refining existing functionality and improving qualitative and quantitative metrics. However, not all entrepreneurs budget for this important part and sometimes do not have additional funding. Therefore, the market is full of web applications that require improvements.?
At Kernelics, we follow the market and trends. With our experience and knowledge of web development, we can offer convenient and economically effective solutions to help improve web applications.
If you want the full guide, follow the link below.
Tom Ponomarev, Co-Founder & CBDO at Kernelics