Whitepaper
Public Beta Tests as a Launch Tool
This whitepaper addresses how public Beta Tests fit into the product development process, helping you decide whether a public Beta makes sense for your product launch strategy.
PDF · 11 pages · April 27, 2017
A public beta can build buzz before a launch, and it can also backfire. This whitepaper is for the people deciding whether to open a software beta to everyone or keep it private as part of a launch.
It explains how the two kinds of beta differ, what can go wrong, the goals a public beta can serve, and ten practices for planning one well.
What’s inside
Public versus private betas
A side-by-side comparison covering owner, access, number of participants, goals, feedback loop, incentives, security, and recruitment.
Goals and product types
Six common public beta goals, from launch awareness to load testing, and how websites, games, drivers, desktop software, and mobile apps tend to use them.
The risks of going public
How a beta that is not ready can sour first impressions and swamp your team with repeat bug reports and support requests.
Ten practices for your strategy
Practical advice such as seeding your audience early, running a private beta alongside, releasing in stages, and planning your support level.
