Deploy to Production

Deploying to production is the process of launching your finalized product to the live environment where end-users can access and use it. This step involves making the product available to your target audience and ensuring everything works seamlessly in the production environment.

Why it's Important

Go Live: Officially make the product available to users.
User Access: Enable users to experience and benefit from the product.
Business Operations: Start generating revenue, user engagement, and business insights.
Brand Image: Establish and reinforce your brand’s presence in the market.
Feedback Collection: Gather real-world feedback from actual users.

How to Implement

Prepare for Deployment:

Confirm that all final tests have been completed and issues resolved.
Ensure that the production environment is set up, secure, and ready for deployment.

Backup Data:

Create backups of all critical data to prevent data loss during deployment.
Ensure backup processes are tested and reliable.

Deploy Code:

Deploy the final version of the product code to the production environment.
Use deployment tools and automation to ensure a smooth process.

Migrate Data:

Migrate any necessary data from staging to production.
Ensure data integrity and consistency during the migration process.

Monitor Deployment:

Monitor the deployment process in real-time to identify and address any issues immediately.
Use monitoring tools to track system performance, error rates, and user activity.

Perform Smoke Testing:

Conduct smoke testing to verify that the core functionalities are working correctly after deployment.
Ensure no critical issues are present in the live environment.

Enable User Access:

Gradually roll out access to users to manage load and identify any unforeseen issues.
Consider using a phased rollout or feature flagging to control access.

Communicate Launch:

Announce the launch to your target audience through various channels (email, social media, press releases).
Provide users with information on how to access and use the product.

Monitor Performance:

Continuously monitor the product’s performance in the production environment.
Track key metrics, user feedback, and system logs to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Support and Maintenance:

Set up support channels to assist users with any issues they encounter.
Plan for regular maintenance and updates to keep the product running optimally.

Available Workshops

Deployment Planning Workshop: Learn to create detailed deployment plans.
Backup and Recovery Workshop: Understand the importance of data backups and recovery processes.
Monitoring Tools Workshop: Explore various tools and techniques for monitoring deployments.
User Communication Workshop: Develop skills for effective user communication during deployment.
Post-Deployment Support Workshop: Plan and set up efficient support channels for users.

Deliverables

A successful live product available to users.
Smooth and stable production environment performance.
Positive user engagement and feedback.
Effective support and maintenance processes in place.
A clear understanding of initial user interactions and product performance.

How to Measure

User Onboarding: Number of users who successfully access and start using the product.
Performance Metrics: System performance, uptime, and response times.
Error Rates: Frequency and severity of errors or issues reported.
User Feedback: Feedback from users regarding their experience and satisfaction.
Support Requests: Number and type of support requests received post-deployment.

Real-World Examples

Netflix

Scenario: Deploys new features and updates through a controlled rollout process.

Outcome: Ensures high availability and user satisfaction with minimal disruptions.

Shopify

Scenario: Launches new e-commerce tools and features to merchants with thorough monitoring.

Outcome: Provides a seamless experience for merchants and their customers.

Slack

Scenario: Deploys updates and new integrations while maintaining robust performance monitoring.

Outcome: Delivers a reliable and feature-rich platform for business communication.

Get It Right

Test Thoroughly: Ensure all testing is complete before deployment.
Use Automation: Automate deployment processes to reduce errors and speed up deployment.
Monitor Continuously: Keep a close eye on performance metrics during and after deployment.
Communicate Clearly: Inform users about the deployment and what to expect.
Prepare for Rollback: Have a rollback plan in case of critical issues.

Don't Make These Mistakes

Inadequate Testing: Skipping final tests, leading to critical issues in production.
Lack of Monitoring: Failing to monitor the deployment process, missing potential issues.
No Backup Plan: Not having data backups, risking data loss.
Poor Communication: Not informing users about the deployment, causing confusion.
Ignoring Feedback: Overlooking user feedback post-deployment, missing valuable insights.

Provided courtesy of Deanne Watt, Chief Product Officer
MiNDPOP Group