GoCardless WooCommerce Gateway 2.9.7: Release Guide

by Luna Greco 52 views

Hey guys! We're super stoked to walk you through the release process for version 2.9.7 of the GoCardless WooCommerce Gateway. This guide will cover everything from the pre-release steps to the final checks on WordPress.org. So, buckle up and let’s dive in!

Introduction to GoCardless WooCommerce Gateway 2.9.7

The GoCardless WooCommerce Gateway is an essential tool for businesses using WooCommerce to accept payments via GoCardless, a leading provider of direct debit solutions. This new release, version 2.9.7, is targeted for release on August 05, 2025, and includes several updates and improvements. This article serves as a comprehensive guide, detailing each step required to ensure a smooth and successful release. We’ll cover everything from merging pull requests to verifying the final deployment on WordPress.org.

Why This Release Matters

Releasing a new version isn't just about pushing out changes; it’s about ensuring our users have the best possible experience. With version 2.9.7, we’re focused on stability, reliability, and incorporating the latest features and fixes. This release is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the gateway and providing seamless payment processing for WooCommerce users. By following this guide, you’ll help us deliver a high-quality product that meets the needs of our community. Let's make this release the best one yet!

Target Release Date: August 05, 2025

Mark your calendars! We are aiming to release version 2.9.7 on August 05, 2025. This gives us a clear timeline to work with and ensures everyone is aligned on the goals. Timelines are crucial, and this date helps us stay focused and organized throughout the release process. We want to ensure that everything is perfect by then, so let’s get to work!

Pre-Release Steps

Before we even think about the actual release, there are a few crucial pre-release steps we need to take. These steps ensure that all necessary changes and fixes are included in the upcoming version. Think of these as the building blocks for a solid release.

Merging Key Pull Requests

Merging pull requests is a vital part of our workflow. It's where individual contributions come together to form the final product. Before we proceed with the release, we need to make sure specific pull requests have been merged into the codebase. Let's walk through the pull requests that are crucial for the 2.9.7 release. These PRs include crucial fixes, updates, and improvements that need to be integrated before we can move forward. Making sure these are merged ensures we're including all the necessary changes for a smooth and effective release. This is where teamwork really shines, as each merge brings us closer to the final product.

Comprehensive List of Merged Pull Requests

For the 2.9.7 release, we've identified several key pull requests that need to be merged. These PRs address various issues, introduce new features, and improve overall performance. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

  • Merge #80: This pull request likely includes a critical bug fix or a significant enhancement. Details on what it addresses can be found within the PR itself. This is usually a high-priority merge, as it directly impacts the functionality and stability of the gateway. We want to make sure any bugs are squashed and improvements are integrated ASAP!

  • Merge #82: Similar to #80, this PR probably contains important updates or fixes that are essential for the release. Checking the PR details will give you a clear understanding of the changes it introduces. Maybe it's a performance tweak or a new feature integration – either way, it's gotta be in there!

  • Merge #73: This pull request could address a specific user-reported issue or introduce a minor feature enhancement. Again, reviewing the PR will provide the specific details. User feedback is gold, and addressing these issues makes the gateway even better. This is where we show our users we're listening and care about their experience.

By ensuring these pull requests are merged, we're setting a solid foundation for the 2.9.7 release. It's like making sure all the ingredients are ready before you start cooking – you can't make a great dish if you're missing something important!

Release Steps: The Heart of the Process

Now we're getting to the meat of the release process! These steps cover everything from branching and version bumping to running tests and creating the release itself. Each step is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and a stable release.

1. Branching Out: Creating the Release Branch

The first step in our release journey is creating a release branch. Think of this as setting up a dedicated workspace for the new version. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Start from develop: We always branch from the develop branch. This ensures we have the latest changes and fixes. This is where all the new features and improvements live before they're ready for the world. So, we want to make sure we're starting with the most up-to-date foundation.

  • Name the branch: The branch should be named release/2.9.7. This naming convention helps us keep things organized and easily identifiable. It's like labeling your folders on your computer – you want to know exactly what's inside at a glance!

  • Why branching is important: Branching allows us to isolate the release work from ongoing development. This means we can make changes and fixes specifically for the release without disrupting the main development flow. It's like having a separate editing room for a film – you can tweak and perfect things without messing up the original footage.

Creating the branch is a foundational step. It sets the stage for the rest of the release process and ensures we have a controlled environment to work in. So, let’s get that branch created and move on to the next step!

2. Version Bump: Updating the Numbers

The version bump is a critical step in the release process. It’s how we tell the world that there’s a new version of our plugin available. We need to update the version number in several places to ensure consistency across the board. Let’s break down where we need to make these changes:

  • woocommerce-gateway-gocardless.php: This is the main plugin file, and it contains the plugin metadata, including the version number. We need to update both the Version: property in the header and the WC_GoCardless->version property. This file is like the central hub of the plugin, so the version number here is super important.

  • package.json: This file contains the project’s metadata and dependencies. Updating the version number here is crucial for package management. It's like the blueprint of the project, and we want to make sure it reflects the current state.

  • package-lock.json: This file is automatically generated and should be updated whenever package.json is modified. It ensures that the dependencies are consistent across different environments. This is all about making sure everything works the same, no matter where it's being run.

  • readme.txt: This file is used by WordPress.org to display plugin information. We need to update the version number here so users know they're using the latest release. This is our public face on WordPress.org, so we want to make a good impression.

Bumping the version number is more than just changing a few digits; it’s about communicating to our users and systems that a new version is available. This step ensures that everyone is on the same page and using the correct version of the plugin.

3. @since Updates: Tracking Changes

Keeping track of when changes were introduced is crucial for maintenance and debugging. The @since tags in our code help us do just that. They indicate in which version a particular function, class, or feature was added. Here’s what you need to do for the 2.9.7 release:

  • Find new @since lines: Search the codebase for lines that include @since x.x.x or @since n.e.x.t. These are the lines that need updating.

  • Update with 2.9.7: Replace the old version numbers with 2.9.7. This ensures that the documentation accurately reflects when these elements were introduced. We're basically marking the birthdate of these new features and updates.

  • Why @since matters: The @since tags are invaluable for developers who need to understand the history of the codebase. They help us track changes, identify when features were added, and troubleshoot issues more effectively. It's like having a timeline of the plugin's evolution right in the code.

Updating the @since tags is a small but important step that helps maintain the clarity and integrity of our codebase. It’s all about making life easier for developers who come after us – or even for ourselves when we revisit code later on.

4. Changelog: Documenting the Journey

The changelog is a record of all the changes, fixes, and features included in a release. It’s a vital piece of documentation that helps users understand what’s new and improved. For the 2.9.7 release, we need to update the changelog in two places:

  • changelog.txt: This file provides a detailed, human-readable list of changes. It’s the go-to place for users who want to know the nitty-gritty details of the release. This is where we get to brag about all the cool stuff we've been working on!

  • readme.txt: This file, used by WordPress.org, also includes a changelog section. We need to ensure this is up-to-date with the latest changes. Again, this is part of our public face on WordPress.org, so accuracy is key.

  • How to update the changelog:

    • Add a new section for version 2.9.7.
    • List all the new features, bug fixes, and improvements.
    • Use clear and concise language.
    • Organize the changes into logical categories.

Keeping a detailed and accurate changelog is essential for transparency and user satisfaction. It shows our users that we’re committed to keeping them informed about the evolution of the plugin. It’s like giving them a backstage pass to see what we’ve been up to!

5. New Files: Keeping Production Lean

When developing a plugin, we often have files and paths that are necessary for development but not for the production version. To keep our releases lean and efficient, we need to make sure these files are excluded. This is where .distignore comes in. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Check for new files: Review the codebase and identify any new files or paths that shouldn’t be included in the production version. These might be testing files, documentation, or other development-related assets. Think of it as decluttering before a big move – we only want to pack the essentials.

  • Update .distignore: Add these files or paths to the .distignore file. This tells the build process to exclude them when creating the release package. The .distignore file acts like a bouncer at a club, deciding who gets in and who stays out.

  • Why this matters: Excluding unnecessary files reduces the size of the plugin package, improves installation times, and enhances security by preventing exposure of development-related files. It’s all about making the plugin as streamlined and efficient as possible.

By carefully managing the files included in our releases, we can ensure a better experience for our users and maintain a clean and secure codebase. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

6. Readme Updates: Tailoring the Message

The readme files are our primary way of communicating important information about the plugin. We have two main readme files: README.md and readme.txt. Each serves a different purpose and audience, so we need to make sure both are up-to-date. Let’s dive in:

  • README.md: This file is geared toward GitHub. It’s the first thing people see when they visit our repository, so it needs to provide a clear overview of the plugin, its features, and how to use it. Think of it as our storefront on GitHub – we want to make a great first impression.

  • readme.txt: This file is used by WordPress.org. It contains WordPress.org-specific content, such as installation instructions, FAQs, and the changelog. This is our official presence on the WordPress plugin directory, so it’s crucial to get it right.

  • Key differences:

    • README.md often includes more detailed explanations and examples, as it’s targeted at developers and users who are comfortable with GitHub.
    • readme.txt needs to adhere to WordPress.org’s formatting guidelines and includes specific sections required by the platform.

  • What to update:

    • Any new features or changes in the release.
    • Updated installation instructions.
    • FAQ or troubleshooting sections.
    • Changelog information.

Keeping our readme files current is essential for providing clear and accurate information to our users. It’s about making sure everyone has the resources they need to use the plugin effectively. Think of it as providing a user manual that’s always up-to-date.

7. Open PR: Time for a Pull Request

Opening a pull request (PR) is a crucial step in our collaborative workflow. It’s how we propose changes and get them reviewed by the team. For the 2.9.7 release, we need to open a PR against the develop branch from our release branch (release/2.9.7). Here’s how:

  • Create the PR: Go to the GitHub repository and create a new pull request. Select release/2.9.7 as the source branch and develop as the target branch.

  • Describe the changes: In the PR description, provide a clear and concise summary of the changes included in the release. This helps reviewers understand the scope of the changes. Think of it as writing a cover letter for your code – you want to make a good impression.

  • Why PRs matter: Pull requests facilitate code review, collaboration, and discussion. They allow the team to ensure the changes are correct, well-tested, and aligned with the project’s goals. It’s like getting a second opinion from a doctor – it’s always good to have another set of eyes on things.

Opening a PR is a key step in our quality control process. It ensures that all changes are thoroughly reviewed before they’re merged into the main codebase. Let’s get that PR open and start the review process!

8. Run Tests: Ensuring Quality

Testing is a non-negotiable part of the release process. We need to make sure that our changes haven’t introduced any new issues and that the plugin is working as expected. For the 2.9.7 release, we’ll be running several types of tests:

  • QIT Default Tests: These are our base Quality Integration Tests (QIT). To trigger them, add the label needs: qit default tests to the release PR. These tests cover the core functionality of the plugin and help us catch any major issues early on. It’s like a health checkup for our code – we want to make sure everything is in tip-top shape.

  • E2E Tests: End-to-end (E2E) tests run automatically on the release PR. These tests simulate real user scenarios and ensure that the plugin works seamlessly from start to finish. Think of it as test-driving a car – we want to make sure it performs well in real-world conditions.

  • Why testing is crucial: Testing helps us identify and fix bugs before they reach our users. It ensures that the release is stable, reliable, and provides a positive user experience. It’s like having a safety net – we want to catch any falls before they happen.

Running tests is a critical step in maintaining the quality of our plugin. It gives us the confidence to release new versions knowing that they’ve been thoroughly vetted. Let’s run those tests and make sure we’re delivering a top-notch product!

9. Merge: Bringing It All Together

Merging is the process of integrating the changes from our release branch into the main codebase. For the 2.9.7 release, we need to merge our release branch (release/2.9.7) into both develop and trunk. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Non-fast-forward merge: We use a non-fast-forward merge to preserve the history of the release branch. This makes it easier to track changes and revert if necessary. Think of it as keeping a detailed map of our journey – we want to know exactly where we’ve been.

  • Merge into develop: First, we merge the release branch into develop. This ensures that the latest changes are included in the development version. It’s like adding the new chapter to our ongoing story – the develop branch is where the story continues to unfold.

  • Merge develop into trunk: Next, we merge develop into trunk. Before doing this, we need to make sure we pull the most recent changes into develop and trunk to avoid conflicts. The trunk branch contains the stable development version, so this is where the finished product goes.

  • Why this order? By merging into develop first, we ensure that the development branch is always up-to-date with the latest changes. Then, merging into trunk ensures that the stable version is ready for release. It’s like building a house – we need to complete the foundation before we can put on the roof.

Merging is a critical step that brings all our hard work together. It’s the culmination of the development process and sets the stage for the final release. Let’s get those branches merged and move on to the next phase!

10. Push: Sharing the Changes

Pushing our changes to GitHub is how we share our work with the world. It’s like publishing a book – we want everyone to be able to access our masterpiece. For the 2.9.7 release, we need to push the trunk branch to GitHub. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Push trunk: Use the command git push origin trunk to push the local trunk branch to the remote repository on GitHub. This uploads all the changes we’ve made to the trunk branch. It’s like sending the final manuscript to the printer – we’re ready to make it official.

  • Why trunk? The trunk branch contains the stable version of the plugin, so this is the branch we want to push to GitHub. This ensures that the online repository has the latest and greatest version of our plugin. It’s the official source of truth for our release.

Pushing our changes to GitHub makes them accessible to everyone and ensures that our codebase is backed up and secure. It’s a simple step that has a big impact on collaboration and transparency. Let’s get that push done and move on to the next step!

11. Compare: Ensuring Nothing Is Missed

After merging and pushing our changes, it’s crucial to double-check that nothing has been missed. Comparing the trunk branch to the develop branch helps us ensure that all the intended changes have been included in the release. Here’s how to do it:

  • Use GitHub Compare: GitHub provides a convenient way to compare branches. You can use this link: Compare trunk to develop.

  • Review the diff: The compare view shows a detailed list of all the differences between the two branches. Carefully review this list to ensure that all the changes you expected are there and that there are no unexpected changes. It’s like proofreading a document – we want to catch any errors before they go live.

  • Why this matters: Comparing branches helps us catch any last-minute issues or missed changes. It’s a critical step in our quality control process and ensures that we’re releasing a complete and accurate version of the plugin. It’s like having a final checklist before launching a rocket – we want to make sure everything is in place.

By comparing trunk and develop, we can have confidence that our release is complete and ready to go. Let’s take that extra step and make sure we’ve dotted all the i’s and crossed all the t’s!

12. Test the Pre-Release ZIP Locally: A Hands-On Check

Before we officially release the new version, it's vital to test the pre-release ZIP file locally. This step ensures that the plugin installs correctly and functions as expected in a real-world environment. Here’s a detailed guide on how to perform this test:

  • Download the ZIP: The first step is to download the pre-release ZIP file. You can find it as an artifact from the Generate ZIP file Action on GitHub here. This file contains the plugin in a compressed format, ready for installation.

  • Install Locally:

    • WordPress Dashboard: Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.
    • Plugins Section: Navigate to the "Plugins" section.
    • Add New: Click on the "Add New" button.
    • Upload Plugin: Click the "Upload Plugin" button at the top of the page.
    • Choose File: Select the downloaded ZIP file and click "Install Now."

  • Activate the Plugin: After WordPress has installed the plugin, click the "Activate Plugin" link. This will enable the GoCardless WooCommerce Gateway on your site.

  • Verification Steps:

    • File Integrity: Ensure the ZIP file contains all the files we expect. This includes the main plugin file (woocommerce-gateway-gocardless.php), any necessary scripts, stylesheets, and assets.
    • Installation Process: Verify that the plugin installs without any errors or warnings. A smooth installation process is crucial for user experience.
    • Activation Check: Confirm that the plugin activates correctly. Look for any activation hooks or setup processes that should run upon activation and ensure they complete successfully.
    • Basic Functionality: Test basic functionality. This might include setting up the plugin, processing a test transaction, and checking various settings and configurations. This ensures the core features of the plugin are working as expected.

Testing the pre-release ZIP locally is a practical way to catch any issues that might not be apparent in automated tests. It’s like a dress rehearsal before the big show, giving us confidence that everything will run smoothly.

13. Compare: Diff Check Against the Released Zip

Once we’ve generated the new ZIP file, we need to make sure it contains all the changes we expect and nothing more. A diff compare against the latest released zip is the perfect way to do this. Here’s how:

  • Download the Latest Released ZIP: Head over to the releases page and download the latest released version of the plugin. This is our baseline for comparison. It’s like having the original blueprint to compare against the new one.

  • Generate the New ZIP: If you haven't already, generate the ZIP file for the 2.9.7 release. This is the file we’ll be comparing against the released version.

  • Run a Diff Compare: There are several tools you can use to compare the two ZIP files. Here are a couple of popular options:

    • Command Line: If you’re comfortable with the command line, you can use the diff command (or a similar tool) to compare the contents of the extracted ZIP files. It's like using a magnifying glass to examine every detail.

    • GUI Tools: There are also graphical user interface (GUI) tools available that make the comparison process more visual and intuitive. Popular options include Beyond Compare, Meld, and Araxis Merge. These tools provide a side-by-side view of the files and highlight the differences. It’s like having a detailed map highlighting all the changes.

  • Review the Changes: Carefully review the output of the diff compare. Make sure that all the expected changes are present and that there are no unexpected changes. This includes new features, bug fixes, and any other modifications we’ve made. It’s like checking the final draft of a book – we want to make sure everything is perfect.

  • Why This Step Matters: Comparing the generated ZIP against the released ZIP ensures that our release package is complete and accurate. It’s a final quality check that helps us avoid releasing a version with missing or incorrect changes. It’s like having a safety net – we want to catch any mistakes before they reach our users.

By running a diff compare, we can have confidence that our release is exactly what we intended. Let’s take that extra step to ensure a smooth and successful release!

14. Release: Making It Official

We’ve made it to the big moment! Creating a new release on GitHub is how we make version 2.9.7 official and available to the world. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure everything goes smoothly:

  • Navigate to Releases: Go to the releases page in our GitHub repository. This is where we’ll create the new release.

  • Create a New Release: Click on the “Draft a new release” button. This will take you to the release creation form.

  • Tag the Release:

    • Tag Name: Name the tag with the new version number, which is 2.9.7.
    • Target Branch: Make sure the target branch is set to trunk. This ensures we’re releasing the stable version of the plugin. Tagging the release is like putting a label on a finished product – it makes it easy to identify and track.

  • Release Title: Name the release with the new version number as well (2.9.7). Consistency is key!

  • Describe the Release:

    • Changelog: Paste the changelog from changelog.txt into the body of the release. This provides users with a clear summary of the changes included in this version. The changelog is like the table of contents for a new edition – it tells users what’s new and improved.
    • Closed Issues: Include a link to the closed issues on the milestone. This gives users more context on the issues that have been addressed in this release. It’s like showing the “before and after” pictures of a renovation project.

  • Publish the Release: Once you’ve filled out all the information, click the “Publish release” button. This makes the release public and available for download. Publishing the release is like opening the doors to a new store – it’s time to share our hard work with the world.

  • Verify the Release: After publishing, the release should appear under the releases section. Double-check that all the information is correct and the release notes are clear and comprehensive. It’s like giving a final inspection before the grand opening.

Creating a new release on GitHub is a significant milestone in our development process. It’s the moment we share our work with the community and make the latest improvements available to everyone. Let’s make sure it’s a release to remember!

15. SVN: Deploy to WordPress.org

Deploying our plugin to the WordPress.org repository is a critical step in making it available to a wider audience. Fortunately, we have a GitHub Action that automates this process, making it smoother and more reliable. Here’s an overview of what happens and how to monitor it:

  • GitHub Action: We use a dedicated GitHub Action to handle the deployment to WordPress.org. This action is triggered automatically when a new release is created on GitHub.

  • Automation: The GitHub Action takes care of packaging the plugin, connecting to the WordPress.org SVN repository, and deploying the new version. This reduces the manual effort required and minimizes the risk of errors. It’s like having a robot assistant that handles all the heavy lifting.

  • Monitoring:

    • GitHub Actions Tab: You can monitor the progress of the deployment by visiting the “Actions” tab in our GitHub repository. This will show you the status of the Deploy to WordPress.org workflow.
    • Workflow Details: Click on the workflow run to see detailed logs and status updates. This allows you to track each step of the deployment process and identify any issues that may arise. Monitoring the deployment is like watching the delivery truck on its route – we want to make sure everything arrives safely.

  • What to Look For:

    • Success: A successful deployment will show a green checkmark indicating that all steps have completed without errors.
    • Failures: If the deployment fails, the workflow will show a red cross. You can click on the workflow run to view the logs and identify the cause of the failure. Failures are like road bumps on the delivery route – we need to address them quickly to get back on track.

  • Why This Matters: Automating the deployment process ensures that our plugin is published to WordPress.org quickly and efficiently. Monitoring the deployment allows us to catch and resolve any issues promptly, ensuring a smooth release. It’s like having a well-oiled machine that gets our product to market with minimal fuss.

By leveraging GitHub Actions for deployment, we can focus on developing great features and improvements while the automation handles the publishing process. Let’s keep an eye on the deployment and ensure our plugin reaches the WordPress.org community without a hitch!

16. Check WordPress.org: The Final Verification

After deploying our plugin to WordPress.org, it’s crucial to verify that the changes are live on the WordPress.org website. This ensures that users can download and use the latest version of our plugin. Here’s how to check:

  • Visit the Plugin Page: Go to the plugin page on WordPress.org: https://wordpress.org/plugins/woocommerce-gateway-gocardless/. This is our public storefront on WordPress.org.

  • Check the Version Number: Look for the version number displayed on the plugin page. Make sure it matches the new version we just released (2.9.7). This confirms that the deployment was successful and the correct version is live. It’s like checking the price tag on a product – we want to make sure it matches the advertised price.

  • Review the Changelog: Verify that the changelog on the WordPress.org page is up-to-date with the changes we included in the release. This provides users with a summary of the new features and fixes. The changelog is like a menu for a new restaurant – it tells customers what to expect.

  • Test the Download: Download the latest version of the plugin from WordPress.org and install it on a test site. Ensure that it installs and activates correctly and that all basic functionality is working as expected. This is like taking a test drive of a new car – we want to make sure everything works smoothly.

  • Why This Matters: Checking WordPress.org is the final step in our release process. It ensures that our plugin is available to users and that all the information is accurate and up-to-date. It’s like the grand opening of a new store – we want to make sure everything is perfect for our customers.

  • Note: It may take a few minutes for the changes to go live on WordPress.org. If you don’t see the updated version immediately, check back after a short while. Patience is key!

By verifying our plugin on WordPress.org, we can have confidence that our release is complete and our users have access to the latest improvements. Let’s give it a final check and celebrate a successful release!

17. Close Milestone: Wrapping Up the Release

Closing the milestone is an important housekeeping step that helps us organize our project and track our progress. For the 2.9.7 release, we need to update the milestone with the release date and a link to the GitHub release, then close it. Here’s how:

  • Navigate to the Milestone: Go to the milestone in our GitHub repository. This is where we manage our release targets and deadlines.

  • Edit the Milestone: Click on the “Edit” button to modify the milestone details.

  • Update Details:

    • Release Date: In the “Due date (optional)” field, add the release date. This helps us track when the milestone was completed.
    • GitHub Release Link: In the “Description” field, add a link to the GitHub release. This provides a direct connection between the milestone and the release.

  • Close the Milestone: Once you’ve updated the details, click the “Close milestone” button. This marks the milestone as complete and removes it from the active milestones list.

  • Why This Matters: Closing the milestone helps us keep our project organized and provides a clear record of our releases. It’s like filing away a completed project – it helps us stay organized and track our accomplishments.

Updating the milestone with the release date and GitHub release link provides valuable context for future reference. It’s like adding a caption to a photo – it helps us remember the details of the event.

By closing the milestone, we’re wrapping up the release process and ensuring that our project stays well-organized. Let’s take this final step to celebrate a successful release and prepare for the next one!

18. Punt Incomplete Items: Planning for the Future

After a release, it’s common to have some issues or pull requests that were originally targeted for the release but didn’t quite make it in. These incomplete items need to be reassigned to a future milestone so they don’t get lost in the shuffle. For the 2.9.7 release, we need to review any open issues or PRs and update their milestone to 3.0.0 or Future Release. Here’s how:

  • Review Open Items: Go through the open issues and pull requests that were milestoned for 2.9.7. Identify any items that were not included in the release.

  • Update Milestone:

    • Edit Issue/PR: Open each incomplete issue or pull request and click on the “Edit” button.
    • Milestone Field: In the “Milestone” field, select either 3.0.0 or Future Release, depending on when you anticipate the item will be addressed.

  • Why This Matters: Punting incomplete items ensures that they are not forgotten and will be addressed in a future release. It helps us manage our backlog and plan for upcoming work. It’s like moving items from a to-do list for today to a list for tomorrow – it helps us prioritize and stay organized.

Assigning incomplete items to the appropriate milestone helps us set realistic goals for future releases. It’s like planning a road trip – we need to know where we’re going and what we need to pack.

By taking the time to punt incomplete items, we’re ensuring that our project remains organized and that all important issues and features are addressed in a timely manner. Let’s take this final step to set the stage for our next release!

Conclusion: A Successful Release of GoCardless WooCommerce Gateway 2.9.7

Alright guys, we’ve reached the end of our journey through the release process for GoCardless WooCommerce Gateway 2.9.7! We’ve covered everything from pre-release steps to the final checks on WordPress.org. By following these steps diligently, we ensure a smooth, stable, and successful release. This guide is more than just a checklist; it’s a roadmap for delivering high-quality software to our users. Each step, from merging pull requests to verifying the deployment on WordPress.org, plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and reliability of our plugin. So, let’s take a moment to celebrate our accomplishment and gear up for the next adventure! Thanks for following along, and let’s keep making awesome releases together! High five!