Release and deployment RELM

Applying the processes, systems and functions required to make new and changed services and features available for use.

Updates for SFIA 9

There is an updated version of this skill for SFIA 9.
Theme(s) influencing the updates for this skill: Application of SFIA skills for cloud-based working, Making SFIA easier to consume (enhance readability/guidance/descriptions), Making SFIA easier to consume (updates to skill name/skill description), Making SFIA easier to consume (new levels).
Skill split into two skills: Release management and Deployment
New level 2 added to support entry-level roles.
Content changes have been made to levels 3, 4, 5, and 6.
You can move to SFIA 9 when you are ready - SFIA 8 skill descriptions will still be available to use.
Previous SFIA assessments or skills mapping may be impacted by this change. See also Deployment

Activities may include — but are not limited to:

packaging and deploying software changes and updates for release into a live environment
managing continuous delivery/deployment using automation tools for containerisation and orchestration
using package management tools or application lifecycle management tools for software dependency, version and library control
combining changes to form a release that delivers a new service or updates an existing service
adhering to established safety, security and quality standards
enabling the controlled and effective handover to operational management and the user community.

Levels of responsibility for this skill

This skill is not typically observed or practiced at these levels of responsibility and accountability.

Uses approved tools and techniques for specific deployment activities.

Administers the recording of activities, logging of results and documents technical activities undertaken.

Assesses and analyses release components for input to release scheduling.

Maintains and administers tools and methods for software delivery, deployment and configuration.

Maintains release processes and procedures.

Leads the assessment, analysis, planning and design of release packages, including assessment of risk.

Liaises with business and technology teams on release scheduling and communication of progress. Conducts post-release reviews.

Ensures that release processes and procedures are applied and that releases can be rolled back as needed.

Identifies, evaluates and manages the adoption of appropriate release and deployment techniques, processes and automation tools.

Sets the release policy for the organisation in the context of both development and production/operations.

Implements processes, tools, and resources to ensure that the transition of services, service components and packages are planned and compliant.

Ensures that test, validation and configuration management are included in all release and deployment activities.

Provides authorisation for critical release activity and point of escalation.

This skill is not typically observed or practiced at this level of responsibility and accountability.