Versioning Policy
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Structured Evolution of the Vibe Programming Framework
A consistent versioning approach is essential for framework evolution, adoption planning, and backward compatibility. This policy establishes clear guidelines for how the Vibe Programming Framework is versioned, what each version change signifies, and how users can effectively navigate framework updates.
Semantic Versioning Approach
The Vibe Programming Framework follows semantic versioning (SemVer) principles with format MAJOR.MINOR.PATCH:
Version Number Components
MAJOR version (X.0.0): Incremented for backward-incompatible changes that require significant adaptation. Major versions may introduce fundamental shifts in framework philosophy or structure.
MINOR version (0.X.0): Incremented when adding functionality in a backward-compatible manner. Minor versions enhance the framework without breaking existing implementations.
PATCH version (0.0.X): Incremented for backward-compatible bug fixes, documentation improvements, or minor refinements that don't add new functionality.
Pre-release Identifiers
Pre-release versions use the following additional identifiers:
Alpha (1.0.0-alpha.1): Early development versions with potentially unstable features, primarily for framework contributors and early testing.
Beta (1.0.0-beta.1): Feature-complete versions undergoing broader testing, suitable for early adopters comfortable with potential changes.
Release Candidate (1.0.0-rc.1): Versions considered stable unless significant issues are discovered, appropriate for implementation planning.
Component Versioning
Individual framework components may evolve at different rates. The framework uses the following approach to component versioning:
Core Components
Core components (Prompt Engineering System, Verification Protocols, Security Toolkit, Documentation Standards) share the framework's primary version number to ensure compatibility.
Extension Components
Extension components or specialized implementations may have independent version numbers while indicating compatibility with specific framework versions:
Templates and Tools
Templates, examples, and tools are versioned independently but indicate minimum framework version requirements:
Backward Compatibility Commitments
The framework makes the following versioning commitments to users:
PATCH Versions: 100% backward compatible - no adaptation required.
MINOR Versions: Backward compatible for core functionality; new features may require opt-in implementation but won't break existing usage.
MAJOR Versions: May require adaptation, with clearly documented migration paths and transitional support for at least two minor release cycles.
Deprecation Policy
Before removing or significantly altering features, the framework follows a structured deprecation process:
Notice Phase: Features marked as deprecated with alternatives documented (minimum one minor version)
Warning Phase: Usage triggers explicit warnings with migration guidance (minimum one minor version)
Removal Phase: Feature removed after completing both prior phases, coinciding with a major version release
LTS (Long-Term Support) Versions
Select framework versions receive extended support as LTS releases:
LTS versions are designated approximately once per year
LTS support includes security updates and critical bug fixes for 24 months
Organizations requiring stability are encouraged to implement LTS versions
Version Documentation
Each release includes comprehensive documentation of changes:
Changelog Structure
Added: New features or components
Changed: Changes to existing functionality
Deprecated: Features that will be removed in upcoming releases
Removed: Features removed in this release
Fixed: Bug fixes
Security: Security vulnerability fixes
Migration Guides
Major and significant minor releases include detailed migration guides with:
Step-by-step adaptation instructions
Compatibility tooling where applicable
Case studies of successful migrations
Framework Evolution Governance
The framework's version advancement follows a governed process:
RFC Process: Significant changes require a Request for Comments period
Community Input: Version planning incorporates user feedback and needs
Release Scheduling: Predictable release cadences for each version type:
Patch: As needed for fixes (typically monthly)
Minor: Quarterly releases for enhancements
Major: Annual consideration based on evolution needs
Version Selection Guidance
Organizations should consider the following when selecting framework versions:
Innovation-Focused Implementations
Latest minor versions to access new capabilities
Consider beta releases for competitive advantage
Plan for quarterly adaptation cycles
Stability-Focused Implementations
LTS versions for maximum stability
Plan for annual major version evaluations
Adopt minor versions after initial release stabilization
Regulated Environment Implementations
LTS versions with security patches
Formal evaluation process for version advancement
Documented version validation process
Getting Started with Version Management
To effectively manage framework versions in your implementation:
Document your current framework version in your implementation documentation
Subscribe to framework release notifications
Establish a version evaluation process for your organization
Incorporate version updates into your regular maintenance cycles
Contribute feedback to framework evolution through the community channels
Next Steps
As you implement version management:
Explore Contribution Guidelines for participating in framework evolution
Learn about the Roadmap for upcoming version developments
Discover Community Resources for version-specific support
Remember: Effective version management balances innovation adoption with implementation stability. By following these versioning policies, you can confidently evolve your implementation alongside the framework itself.
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