VERSION DESCRIPTION:

I use a standard version reference descriptor for all the applications I development. They are written in the form V.R.r.dn.pn cn described as follows:

Version.Major revision.Minor revision
[development, number, preliminary, number, compile, number]

V   Version
R   Major revision
r   Minor revision
dn  Development version and it's release number
pn  Preliminary version and it's release number
cn  Compile number

The dn, pn and cn components are used only with development releases.

When you refer to an application of mine please indicate the complete version reference.

Development:

A development cycle is used as a proof-of-concept. This cycle is generally seen only by a customer and possibly a team of testers.

Alpha:

An alpha cycle is the main development cycle. In this cycle features, functions and behaviors are developed. It's during this cycle the public domain, freeware and shareware applications first appear to users in general.

Beta:

The beta cycle is the last cycle before final release of an application. The feature set is fixed. Most effort now goes into making modifications for various platforms, visual appearances (3D effects etc.), additional features (scripability etc.) and a major break-it test cycle. Also memory reduction techniques and fine tuning is performed.

After the Final Release:

Changes to the revision digits usually indicate major and minor fixes. After enough changes have occurred and with advances in computer technology a new version will be required.  A new version generates a new alpha and beta cycle. If the application's environment changes to much, a new application may be created. If the new application uses the old applications name, there will be no relationship between their respective version numbers. The new application's name will usually incorporate a number like; 2, II or TWO to distinguish it from the older application.