The timeline for moving a feature or bug fix from the "Accepted" stage to the "Released" stage can vary widely. It may range from a few days to several months depending on various factors. Here's a brief overview of what can affect this timeline:
Severity and Priority: For bugs, the severity level (S1, S2, S3, S4) helps determine the urgency of the fix. More severe bugs are generally addressed more quickly. For features, the priority classification (P1, P2, P3, P4) indicates the importance and alignment with Zimbra's strategic goals, and higher-priority features are usually developed earlier.
Development Complexity: Some features or bug fixes might require intricate changes to the code, careful testing, architectural changes or coordination across different modules of the product. These complexities can affect the time needed to move from acceptance to release.
Resource Allocation: The availability of development resources, such as engineers and testers, can also impact the timeline. The allocation of resources is often determined by current development sprints, strategic priorities, and other ongoing projects.
Customer Impact: Features or bugs that have a significant impact on a large number of customers may be accelerated through the development process.
Release Cycles: Zimbra's development follows specific release cycles, and the timing of these cycles can affect when a feature or bug fix is released. Items that align with an upcoming release may move more quickly, while others might have to wait for a subsequent cycle.
External Dependencies: Sometimes, the development of a feature or resolution of a bug may depend on external factors, such as third-party integrations, which can add variability to the timeline.
While these factors contribute to the variability in the timeline, Zimbra's development team follows a structured process to ensure that each item is handled efficiently. The team prioritizes work based on the RICE prioritization process, considering the reach, impact, confidence, and effort involved.
The dynamic nature of software development at Zimbra allows us to react quickly to things like security vulnerabilities which require urgent attention, but it makes it challenging to provide a specific "typical" timeline that applies to all features or bugs. For detailed information on the status or expected release date of a specific feature or bug fix, you can refer to the pm.zimbra.com portal, or engage with the product team through the bug portal.