What is a Beta version?
In the past we have often released beta versions of a product before releasing the final version. The problem we have found is in how people interpret the word “beta”. Many companies consider “beta” to be an early version of a product that has yet to have some things implemented, or has yet to complete testing, etc… Since there is some confusion over this, I’d like to formally define terms which will apply to all future products from HI-TECH: • Beta – If we release a product that is labeled “Beta”, this means that it is an early release: it may not have completed/passed all testing; some features which are intended for the final release may not be included. This is a sample of things to come. • Release Candidate – A product labeled as a “Release Candidate” has completed essential testing; there may be some documentation, sample code, etc. yet to be completed. This is a close representation of what the final version will be. (Multiple release candidates may be released if feedback ind
“Beta” software is a pre-release of a new version of the program. It is a “work-in-progress” that is generally believed to be stable but hasn’t been as thoroughly tested and “run through the ringer” as a regular release. It allows people to start using new functionality sooner, and helps iron out any problems as well as gives the developer feedback on the usability of new features. It’s always a good idea to make backup copies of your database file on a regular basis, in case something goes wrong in the beta code. If you have a backup of your database, you know you can always go back to that saved copy.
