Google launches a new process for Google Apps, allowing administrators two different schedules of when new apps are released.
Google’s new feature release process comes out of feedback on the current process, which is rather weak. Currently, administrators must manually keep track of the upcoming release queue and train support staff based upon the posted release schedule.
The new process will allow administrators the opportunity to be informed about new releases that are scheduled to be implemented into Google Apps. The two options, Scheduled and Rapid, aim to fit the different companies currently using Google Apps.
The rapid release schedule will get you the latest and greatest (sometimes not so great) releases of applications as soon as they available. The more conservative scheduled option will inform you about the upcoming release and direct you towards resources you can use to train users. It also doesn’t immediately implement the release, allowing more time for administrators to train and inform users.
The new schedules are available for administrators by going into the Google Apps administration menu, and under the Domain Settings Tab. You can read the full release from Google on their Google Enterprise Blog.