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Software Delivery: Best Practices in Release Management

Launching updates and new features requires more than technical readiness. It calls for alignment across teams, proper scheduling, tested environments, and clear communication. The release management process brings structure to this work, making delivery more predictable and consistent.

When done well, it supports faster development cycles, reduces deployment errors, and improves team coordination. Let’s explore what practices contribute to a reliable and efficient release approach.

Build the Foundation: Define the Release Process

Without a defined path, software delivery can quickly become reactive. Establishing a clear framework helps every team understand their responsibilities before, during, and after a release.

To set up your release process:

Classify release types, such as major releases, minor updates, and hotfixes.

Establish checkpoints, including code freeze, QA approvals, and sign-offs.

Set up deployment methods that align with the size and complexity of each release.

Document rollback procedures and assign ownership for recovery actions.

Consistency makes every release more manageable. Even small updates benefit from structured coordination.

Choose Tools That Align with Your Workflow

The right tools can support every step of your sw release management. For teams using Jira, Golive by Apwide adds clarity and coordination to software delivery cycles.

Golive features include:

Environment booking and planning directly in Jira.

Real-time release calendars that sync across teams.

Visibility into who is deploying what, and when.

Status dashboards that integrate release data with existing workflows.

When tools are visible and shared, communication becomes part of the process. Golive helps ensure no team is left wondering about the state of the release.

Other tools you might consider include:

CI/CD platforms for automated pipelines.

Version control systems with tagging and branching strategies.

Monitoring and alerting systems for post-release tracking.

Use tools that connect teams, not isolate them. Collaboration is easier when everyone works within a common ecosystem.

Coordinate Testing and Environments

Environments are where code becomes something real. Managing these environments and their usage is essential to any release effort.

Best practices for test environments:

Schedule environments in advance to avoid conflicts.

Ensure parity with production for realistic testing.

Share environment availability through centralized calendars.

Track environment versions and changes as part of release planning.

Golive’s environment tracking makes this easier, especially for organizations with multiple test lanes. When environments are visible to all teams, delivery speed increases without introducing chaos.

Collaborate Across Roles and Functions

A successful release management process includes contributions from developers, testers, operations, product managers, and often stakeholders outside of IT. Coordination between these groups is vital.

To encourage cross-team alignment:

Hold recurring release planning meetings that include all participants.

Assign clear roles and responsibilities for each step of the release cycle.

Document and communicate status changes throughout the release window.

Releases run better when everyone knows the plan. Visibility and transparency reduce missteps and foster accountability.

Plan for Change and Mitigate Risk

Even with testing, risks remain. A strong release approach anticipates potential disruptions and prepares for them.

Risk-mitigation strategies include:

Deploying to staging environments that mirror production.

Using feature toggles to control exposure of new functionality.

Scheduling releases during low-traffic windows when possible.

Documenting fallback steps with responsible contacts.

Preparation builds confidence. Teams don’t need to fear issues when they know how to respond quickly and clearly.

Monitor, Measure, and Improve

After deployment, there’s still work to do. Monitoring and measurement close the loop on the release management process and guide improvement.

Effective post-release actions include:

Tracking system behavior and performance with logs and alerts.

Collecting feedback from users and internal teams on the outcome of the release.

Conducting release retrospectives to discuss what went well and what needs change.

Updating documentation and process guides based on lessons learned.

Each release builds on the last. Taking time to reflect improves future planning and reduces surprises over time.

Promote a Culture of Shared Responsibility

Tools and processes work best in environments where teams understand the value of reliability. Encourage ownership and celebrate successful deliveries.

Culture-building ideas:

Recognize contributions from all roles involved in the release.

Share metrics like uptime, lead time, and deployment frequency across teams.

Support open discussion of delivery bottlenecks and process friction.

Sustained improvement comes from shared goals. When everyone takes part in the delivery process, quality becomes a team outcome—not a single team’s burden.

An effective release management process brings together structure, tools, and people. Whether delivering weekly patches or quarterly upgrades, these practices help ensure every deployment aligns with expectations and minimizes disruptions.

Golive by Apwide supports this work with features that bring clarity to release schedules and environment usage—all from within Jira. This keeps planning, action, and visibility in one place.

As software grows more complex, a clear process gives teams the confidence to move forward without hesitation. With the right structure and habits, release management becomes a source of stability in every delivery cycle.

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Types of Water Service Pipes in Toronto Homes and Key Things About Them

Have you ever thought about the pipes that bring water into your home in Toronto? For most of us, we usually take them for granted. Yet they are critically important to our lives, funneling clean water to our taps, showers, and appliances. What many homeowners don’t know is that old pipes or those damaged can cause serious problems, from leaking to problems with water quality.

In fact, According to theCity of Toronto, many older homes are still equipped with pipes made from materials that are no longer considered safe or efficient, such as lead or galvanized steel. In this article, we’ll review the most popular water service pipes that are installed in homes throughout Toronto break down the best and worst qualities each one has and explain why you should consider an upgrade to the latest materials.

We will also discuss important points such as the Toronto water pipe replacement program and selecting the right pipe for your home water supply, etc. Let’s consider the options and ensure that your home has the proper plumbing for clean, reliable water.

Types of Water Service Pipes in Toronto Homes

Not all water pipes are created equal when it comes to materials. Some pipes are more durable and safe, and some are more dangerous than others, and this will guide you when making decisions about your plumbing system.

These are the most popular varieties:

1. Lead Pipes – A Health Hazard

In the past, lead was also a popular material for plumbing pipes in homes constructed before the mid-1950s. But now, lead pipes are widely recognized as a hazard to human health because of water contamination with lead. The City of Toronto has a Water Main Replacement Program, which seeks to replace lead pipes, but many older homes continue to use lead pipes for water service lines.

Key Points About Lead Pipes:

Health Risks: It can cause serious health problems, especially for children and pregnant women, including developmental issues.

Needs Replacement: The public section of lead pipes (from the city’s water main to the property line) is replaced by the City of Toronto. At the same time, homeowners are responsible for the private section.

Upgrade Options: Copper and PVC piping must be used in place of lead to safeguard your home and ensure clean water.

Have you checked your home for lead pipes? If not, it might be worth calling in a professional plumber to check on your plumbing system.

2. Copper Pipes – The Long-Lasting Solution

Copper has been the gold standard for plumbing for decades, especially for water supply lines. It is long-lasting, corrosion-resistant, and handles both hot and cold water effectively. Today, copper remains one of the finest types of pipes that can be installed on a residential water pipe system, which makes it a great choice for homeowners who want to own plumbing that will maintain its quality for its entire lifespan.

Key Points About Copper Pipes:

Pros: Copper is long-lasting and rust-resistant, and it can handle high water pressure. It’s also made of recyclable materials, so it’s an eco-friendly choice.

Cons: They are expensive to install initially, and copper pipes are susceptible to pinhole leaks in areas with acidic water.

Ideal Use: Copper is a great option for main water lines in high-end homes.

In case you're curious, “What kind of pipe do plumbers use for main water lines?” Thanks to its durability and dependability, copper is a popular selection.

3. PVC Pipes – The Budget-Friendly Choice

PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride - is a common plastic used in home plumbing, Drain, Waste, and Vent piping. It is lightweight, cheap, and simple to install. PVC is especially popular in Toronto houses because it is easy to work with and inexpensive.

Key Points About PVC Pipes:

Pros: PVC is cheap, strong, and non-reactive. It is also simple to install and essentially maintenance-free.

Cons: PVC pipes may burst under the stress of freezing temperatures and collapse under the pressure of hard soil. The bonded joints can also weep after a while.

Ideal Use: PVC is primarily used for sewer and drainage systems and vent pipes but is not suitable for hot water pipes.

If you are looking to replace pipes for waste and vent systems, then PVC is a solid and inexpensive choice.

4. PEX Tubing – Flexible and Durable

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes are becoming more familiar to homeowners and plumbers due to their flexibility and ease of installation. PEX works very well under for both hot drinking water and hydronic heat so it’s a favorite among Toronto residents.

Key Points About PEX Pipes:

Pros: PEX is flexible, so it’s easier to install in tight places. It's resistant to freezing and bursting and is ideal for both hot and cold water lines.

Cons: PEX should not be used outside since it degrades with exposure to UV. It is susceptible to rodent damage as well.

Ideal Use: PEX is great for interior plumbing—particularly in large homes with multiple levels and odd or retro-fitted layouts.

Considering, “What is the best pipe for home plumbing?” PEX provides an easy, quick install option to homeowners seeking ease of installation and flexibility.

5. Galvanized Steel Pipes:  An Outdated Choice

Galvanized steel pipes used to be the norm for plumbing systems; however, they went out of fashion because they broke down over time with rust. Many homes across Toronto, specifically those constructed prior to 1960, may still contain these pipes.

Key Points About Galvanized Steel Pipes:

Pros: Galvanized steel is strong and durable, suitable for high water pressure.

Cons: Galvanized pipes corrode on the inside over time, blocking water flow and causing the possibility of water contamination. They are also harder to fix.

Ideal Use: Galvanized piping is seldom used these days and is replaced with copper, PEX or PVC.

To prevent expensive repairs and possible health hazards, you must replace any galvanized pipes in your house with more contemporary materials.

Key Takeaways for Toronto Homeowners

If you are considering the type of piping for water supply, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each material will help you make the best choice. Here’s what you need to know:

Lead-Pipes: Should be replaced immediately due to health risks.

Copper Pipes: Sturdy and long-lasting for main water lines.

PVC: It is cheap and good for drainage scenarios anywhere in the house, but not in walls with hot water piping.

PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene Pipes): An affordable, flexible, and easy-to-install pipe for indoor plumbing.

Galvanized Steel Pipes: They need to be replaced because it is outdated and prone to corrosion.

FAQs

What kind of pipe is used for the house water supply?

For water supply, Copper pipes are the only reliable because they are durable and can survive hot and cold conditions. Also, copper is known to be highly reliable and durable.

What is the Toronto Water Pipe Replacement Program?

The City of Toronto replaces the City-owned part of the water service pipe (water main to the property line) as part of its planned capital construction. Homeowners must replace the private part that extends from the property line into their homes.

Which is better, PEX or PVC?

PEX and PVC both have their own pros and cons, but PEX is more flexible and easier to install, especially if space is tight. Although PVC is more rigid than PEX, it is stronger and more resilient for outdoor applications.

Why Choose Canadian Rooter?

At Canadian Rooter, we are experts in various plumbing services, such as lead pipe replacement and water main upgrading! Whether you’re swapping old pipes for new or upgrading to a new plumbing system, we are here to provide your home with the safest, most practical water system ever.

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Transforming Emerging Economies Through Governance and Collaboration

Abiodun Abbey Ogunwale, PhD

Emerging economies, particularly in Africa, are poised for transformative growth, driven by a youthful population, rich resources, and increasing global connectivity. To realize this potential, governments and businesses must work together to strengthen public sector management, foster business development strategies, and leverage technology to address governance challenges in Africa. By aligning policies with sustainable development goals and promoting government transparency, these regions can create a robust investment climate. This article explores how strategic governance, innovative business practices, and technology can drive economic growth and unlock business opportunities in Africa.

Building Effective Public Sector Management

The foundation of any thriving society lies in public administration best practices that prioritize efficiency and accountability. In developing nations, where resources are often scarce, governments must optimize service delivery to meet citizens’ needs, such as access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Capacity building in public administration is critical for equipping public officials with the skills to implement policies effectively. For instance, public administration reforms in Africa, such as those in Botswana, have streamlined bureaucratic processes, reducing delays and improving access to public services [1].

Government policy analysis is essential for creating evidence-based policies that address local challenges. By engaging with communities and analyzing data, governments can develop economic policy frameworks that promote inclusive growth. These frameworks are vital for achieving sustainable development goals, such as reducing poverty and improving quality of life. Additionally, fostering government transparency through measures like open financial reporting and citizen feedback mechanisms strengthens public trust and reduces corruption, creating a stable environment for governance and business [2].

Unlocking Business Opportunities

Africa’s growing markets and abundant resources offer significant business opportunities, particularly in sectors like renewable energy, technology, and agriculture. To succeed, businesses must adopt best practices for growth in emerging markets, such as understanding local regulations and building strong community ties. Governments can support this by creating a favorable investment climate, with policies that reduce bureaucratic hurdles and offer incentives for sustainable investments [3].

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are a cornerstone of economic progress in emerging economies. These collaborations enable governments and businesses to address critical infrastructure needs, such as energy grids or transportation networks. In Nigeria, for example, PPPs have driven the development of renewable energy projects, creating jobs and improving access to electricity. Such initiatives align with economic policy frameworks that prioritize long-term growth and sustainability.

Businesses must also embrace social innovation in governance to create inclusive models that empower local communities. Supporting small enterprises through training programs or access to financing can stimulate economic activity at the grassroots level. These efforts not only drive growth but also foster social stability, making them essential for sustainable development.

The Role of Technology in Transformation

Technology plays a pivotal role in modernizing public administration and driving economic progress. E-government initiatives, such as digital platforms for tax collection or public service delivery, have transformed how governments operate in Africa. These systems reduce administrative costs, enhance transparency, and make services more accessible to citizens. In Rwanda, for instance, e-government initiatives have simplified processes like business licensing, encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting business development strategies.

The role of technology in public administration extends to improving government policy analysis. Data analytics enable governments to assess the impact of policies on economic development, ensuring resources are allocated effectively. For example, mobile technology has allowed African governments to collect real-time data on public health, enabling faster responses to crises like disease outbreaks. These advancements demonstrate how technology can improve public sector efficiency, creating a more accountable and responsive governance system.

In the private sector, technology is opening new markets and driving innovation. E-commerce platforms have enabled small businesses in Africa to reach global customers, while fintech solutions have expanded financial inclusion for underserved populations. By investing in digital infrastructure, such as broadband networks, governments can create an enabling environment for businesses, further supporting economic growth.

Overcoming Governance Challenges

Governance challenges in Africa, such as weak institutions and political instability, can hinder progress. Strategies for enhancing government accountability, such as transparent budgeting and independent oversight, are critical for building trust. Engaging citizens in policy decisions through participatory models ensures that policies reflect local needs. In Uganda, community-driven development projects have empowered citizens to influence local priorities, fostering inclusivity and stability.

Public administration reforms are essential for addressing these challenges. By adopting e-government initiatives and streamlining processes, governments can reduce inefficiencies and create a more transparent system. These reforms are particularly important in resource-constrained environments, where maximizing impact is crucial. By aligning policies with sustainable development goals, governments can address pressing issues like education and healthcare while fostering long-term economic stability.

Fostering a Thriving Investment Climate

A robust investment climate is essential for attracting businesses and driving growth. Africa’s growing consumer markets and natural resources make it an attractive destination for investors. However, challenges like regulatory complexity and infrastructure deficits must be addressed. Governments can simplify regulations, improve infrastructure, and offer incentives for sustainable investments. Mauritius, for example, has created a business-friendly environment through streamlined regulations, attracting significant foreign investment.

Businesses must adapt to local contexts, building partnerships with communities and stakeholders. Community-driven initiatives, such as renewable energy cooperatives or agricultural training programs, can create jobs and empower local entrepreneurs. These efforts align with social innovation in governance, ensuring that economic growth benefits all segments of society. By fostering collaboration between governments, businesses, and communities, emerging economies can create a virtuous cycle of growth and development.

Conclusion

The transformation of emerging economies hinges on the integration of effective governance, innovative business practices, and technology. By embracing public administration best practices and fostering public-private partnerships, governments can create an environment where businesses thrive and citizens prosper. E-government initiatives and data-driven policy analysis enhance transparency and efficiency, while business development strategies and social innovation drive inclusive growth. Addressing governance challenges and promoting transparency are critical steps toward unlocking Africa’s potential. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable development goals, emerging economies can achieve lasting progress, creating opportunities for both local communities and the global economy.

Learn more:

Citations of Corporate Governance in Emerging Economies: A Review of the Principal-Principal Perspective

Innovation in and from emerging economies: New insights and lessons for international business research | Journal of International Business Studies

Collaborative governance and personal relationships for sustainability transformation in the textile sector | Scientific Reports