Are there standard definitions for the terms alpha, beta and RC1 in software development?

Question

Hi,

I am interested to know if the terms alpha, beta and RC1 are terms that are used throughout the software industry or just MS.

What are the definitions?

Malcolm

Answer 1

Yes these are terms that are in general use. Alpha versions are generally for internal use. Beta versions are typically given to selected customers who can use the software, recognizing that it not yet ready for release, and give feedback on problems. Typically, these will be more sophisticated customers who are able to help find problems with the software. Release candidates are generally the versions that one thinks are ready to ship. These may contain small errors, but the basic idea is that this version will ship absent any major flaws found at the last minute.

I don't think that there are any formal definitions and the usage may differ from company to company and product to product. For instance, many Google offerings seem to exist in perpetual beta.

Answer 2

Yes these are standard terms and have standard definitions, though they are often stretched a little in this Web 2.0 world...

Wikipedia has a good explanation of all the terms: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Development_stage#Alpha

Answer 3

There is only one standard definition I've ever encountered that adequately covers all uses of these terms:

• Alpha software is software which the originator has labeled "alpha".
• Beta software is software which the originator has labeled "beta".
• Gamma software is software which the originator has labeled "gamma". (Rarely used anymore.)
• RC software is software which the originator has labeled "RC ".

No other "standard" definition comes close to this one in accuracy and applicability.