The EFS Project has adopted an iterative approach for delivery of the new system, which will realise benefits throughout the project’s lifecycle.
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A phased approach means the new system is being built over several iterations and increments. One of the key benefits of using an agile approach to software development is so benefits can be released throughout the process, rather than only as a big bang release at the end.
The EFS Project has 3 types of releases: Alpha, Beta and Major Releases.
Alpha Releases
Alpha Releases are experimental releases that are undertaken as early as possible in the delivery phase of the project.
The purpose of Alpha Releases is to provide a working prototype for internal user feedback.
Private Beta
Private Beta Releases are releases that build the minimal viable product that was defined throughout the Alpha Releases.
The focus of Private Beta is to develop an end-to-end product for release within a production-like environment.
The completion of Private Beta is a major milestone for the project and is a key dependency for all subsequent releases.
Public Beta
Public Beta Releases focus on the delivery of the product within the production environment, noting that some functionality might still be limited to specific user groups.
For example, some users may still need to use legacy systems.
Feedback is then tracked throughout Public Beta and used to resolve any system issues before progressing to a Major Release.
Major Releases
Major Releases are live releases within the production environment. Major Releases represent that a group of users have been transitioned to the new product and, where appropriate, we are able to decommission existing or legacy systems.