Definition
Release planning is the agile process of identifying and sequencing the work needed to deliver a set of features or a product increment over a defined period. It involves breaking down large bodies of work into smaller, manageable releases, aligning them with business objectives and stakeholder expectations. This planning occurs iteratively, often at the beginning of each release cycle, to ensure the team focuses on the highest priority items. Release planning helps teams manage scope, forecast delivery timelines, and adapt to changing requirements by providing a roadmap for development. For instance, a software team might plan a release to include core user authentication and profile management features, deferring less critical enhancements to a later release. It differs from sprint planning by focusing on a larger time horizon and a broader set of deliverables. This concept is crucial for exams like the PMP, CAPM, and PMI-ACP.