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Addition of (initial -- please edit..) release process document, try to
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capture the current state of things
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dannon committed Mar 12, 2024
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======================
Galaxy Release Process
======================

This document outlines the Galaxy release cycle so administrators and users know
when to expect updates and what each update includes, making it easier to plan
for upgrades and maintain their systems. It does not cover the actual execution
of the release process, which is covered elsewhere. (link)


Major or Long Term Support (LTS) Releases
-----------------------------------------

The first release of each year is Galaxy's annual LTS release. The LTS release
is a major version update corresponding to the year, for example, 24.0. This
release receives significant and thorough testing by a dedicated team that does
end-to-end testing of a variety of analysis protocols and will be supported and
receive bugfixes until the next LTS. As such, this release is ideally targeted
for production use by local Galaxy administrators.


Minor Releases
--------------

Throughout the year, we also ship several (currently 2-3) minor releases. These
are version updates like 24.1, 24.2. These can also include significant
updates, new features, etc., but do not follow the full release-testing protocol
as with the LTS release. These are targeted for administrators who want to stay
up to date with the latest features and improvements. Usegalaxy.org deploys new
minor releases as a part of the release process, and other usegalaxy.* servers
should strive to stay up to date with these.


Point Releases
--------------

Point releases (e.g. 24.1.1) are issued to address bug fixes and security
updates. These are not scheduled and are released as needed. Following the
release branch (i.e. release_24.0) is recommended to stay up to date with these.


Release Schedule
----------------

Our release schedule is as follows:

- LTS Release: Annually, in the first quarter.
- Minor Releases: 2-3 times a year, generally in the early summer and fall.
- Point Releases: As needed.

Please note that the release dates can vary based on the development process and
testing results.

The usegalaxy.* public servers will be updated to the latest release within a
few weeks of the release date.


Release Notes
-------------

For every release, we provide release notes that detail:

- Exciting new features
- General enhancements
- Bug fixes
- Datatype, Visualization, and Tool updates
- Administration Notes including configuration changes and migration guides if
applicable

Please refer to the release notes for detailed information about each release.

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