More choice for Administrators: New Google Apps feature release process

More choice for Administrators: New Google Apps feature release process

A new two-track release process has now rolled out to all Google Apps domains. This new process is aimed at helping administrators balance t... 18.15

A new two-track release process has now rolled out to all Google Apps domains. This new process is aimed at helping administrators balance the benefits of accessing improvements as soon as they're ready with the task of integrating the changes into their organization.

Our new process has two release tracks that Google Apps administrators can choose from:

Rapid Release: Customers on the Rapid Release track have access to new features as soon as the features have completed testing and quality assurance, and are ready to roll out.

Scheduled Release: Customers on the Scheduled Release track gain access to new features on a regular, weekly release schedule following the initial release of those features. This delay allows time for administrators to familiarize themselves with new features using a test domain, educate support staff, and communicate any changes to their users. New features will be released on the Scheduled Release track each Tuesday, with at least a one-week notice following the initial feature launch.

Editions included:
Google Apps, Google Apps for Business, Government and Education

Languages included:
Control Panel: US English Only (Next Generation Control Panel)

How to access what's new:
- The “Pre-release features” checkbox has now been replaced with “Enable scheduled releases”. This causes no change in behaviour for existing domains.
- If your organization previously had “Pre-release features” enabled in the Google Apps control panel, then you will be placed on the Rapid Release track and continue to gain access to new features as soon as they’re ready. Otherwise, your organization will be placed on the Scheduled Release track.
- You can change your selection by choosing how you would like to receive new features in the Google Apps control panel.
- If you're considering a switch to Scheduled Release, note that you may currently be using some features that are only available in Rapid Release.
- New features for Gmail, Contacts, Google Calendar, Google Docs and Google Sites will be following this new release process going forward.

For more information:
http://googleenterprise.blogspot.com/2011/03/new-google-apps-feature-release-process.html
New launch resource site: whatsnew.googleapps.com
List of features currently available to Rapid Release only: http://www.google.com/support/a/bin/answer.py?answer=172172

Q1 2011 Apps Innovation in Review recorded webinar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daraZ87FyIQ

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