What is Beta (Release)?

To put it simply, the alpha and beta stages refer to the phases of testing new software, or an application in the world of IT. The beta stage comes right after the alpha stage in a software development cycle. During this following stage, the aim is to improve security, efficacy, and availability.

Differently from alpha, the beta stage involves outsiders, that aren’t directly involved with the company to run tests, analyze the application and report bugs or errors if any were found. This method is used with the hopes to get genuine feedback.

The Beta version isn’t far from the final version, since it does have the functionality and the looks of how approximately it will be at the final stage. However, alpha and beta versions tend to have design adjustments throughout the process.

The next move after beta testing is the release. When the beta version is not far from being done, it is called a “release candidate”. If no errors or issues happen after, the software can be released and referred to as a “stable release”.

The cryptocurrency that should be released into the market goes through similar stages. It is tested internally and externally making sure that the blockchain architecture does not break down when users start exchanging it.

Moreover, to be fitting for beta testing, the product has to have all of the necessary features, that are planned for the final version. The product shouldn’t go through unpredictable crashes.

Speaking of participants, they must be from the target audience and be able to perform real-world tasks and use the app in a real-world context at the same time. Real users are the ones that do the final test of user acceptance, in real, external conditions. Meaning, that the application will get personal feedback from potential customers.

Open beta testing involves a lot of people who typically are potential clients. Perhaps open testing is a way of marketing and letting the clients get to know the product. Nevertheless, if there is a need for private testing, and keeping the product secret from the public, a smaller number of testers are included. 

A beta release means that the software is available for developers and testers. The people that are testing the version of the software can be called beta testers. These testers are usually volunteers that are curious about the product. They can not only provide feedback about the bugs, but they can recommend new features and additions as well.

The goal is to avoid future failure of the product and increase the overall quality.

One example would be a new blockchain and token protocol, Traxalt, which has conducted a beta testing phase as a way of making sure that all the systems are working the way they should. It formed an alliance with another company and gave them early access to the product.

The alliance company gave feedback, and the developers improved the system and fixed the bugs according to it.