Decouple deployment from release

What does it mean to decouple deployment from release?

Decoupling deployment from release means separating the process of deploying code to production from releasing features to end users. This approach allows you to deploy code without immediately exposing it to users.

By using feature flags, you can manage feature availability independently of deployment. A feature flag acts as a switch that controls whether a new feature is visible to users. This means that you can deploy new code in a controlled manner, ensuring stability and readiness before enabling it for everyone.

Here's why this matters:

• Controlled Rollouts: Deploy code without making it live for all users immediately.

• Instant Remediation: Quickly disable features without redeploying code.

• Reduced Risk: Limit exposure of new features to a subset of users initially.

How does it increase release velocity?

Features can go live immediately without waiting for app builds. This enables continuous delivery and trunk-based development. Both practices streamline the development workflow.

By reducing bottlenecks, you speed up the entire process. Teams work independently, minimizing inter-team dependencies. This autonomy accelerates feature releases.

• Immediate releases: No waiting for app builds.

• Continuous delivery: Keeps code deployment ongoing.

• Trunk-based development: Simplifies merging and integration.

With less coordination needed, each team can deploy at its own pace. This independence reduces delays. It boosts overall productivity.

Feature flags play a critical role. They allow you to toggle features on or off quickly. This flexibility supports faster, safer releases.

Examples of decoupling deployment from release

Example 1: Gradual rollouts

Deploy new code to production but release it to a subset of users. Use feature flags to control who sees the new features. This lets you test in a controlled environment.

• Feature flags: Manage user access to new features.

• Controlled environment: Test with a limited user group.

Example 2: Dark launching

Deploy a feature to production without making it visible to users. Perform internal testing before a public release. Toggle feature flags to switch the feature on or off.

• Internal testing: Test features before public release.

• Feature flags: Easily control feature visibility.

These strategies reduce risk and improve stability. They allow for quick fixes and gradual rollouts. This ensures a smoother user experience.