Releases

This check queries the GitLab API and counts the number of tags/releases in the time range. The check passes if the number of tags/releases is greater than or equal to the minimum threshold.

- type: RELEASES
  description: "Describe the check in context of your badge and level"
  threshold:
    timeRangeInMonths: 6
    max: 1

Background

The use of tags and releases in a project can be an indicator of its maintenance, stability, and ease of reuse. Tags and releases allow developers to mark specific points in a project’s history, often representing stable versions, important updates, or significant milestones.

• Maintenance Indicator: Regular releases and tags show that a project is actively maintained. If releases are consistently made, it indicates that the project is receiving attention and updates from its maintainers. Conversely, a lack of releases over a prolonged period might suggest that the project is abandoned or in a stagnant state.

• Versioning and Stability: Tags often correspond to stable points in the project’s development. They help define and communicate specific versions of the software, making it easier to track changes over time. Users or other developers relying on your project can be confident in the version they’re using, knowing it’s a defined, stable release.

• Ease of Reuse: Projects with regular, well-documented releases are easier to reuse in other projects. When developers can clearly see what versions of a project are available, it’s much simpler to pick the right one for their needs. Furthermore, proper tagging allows users to access more recent or earlier versions of the project, if needed, without the risk of breaking changes or similar issues.

In essence, keeping tags and releases up-to-date and within a sensible threshold makes your project more attractive for contributors, users, and those looking to integrate it into their own work. It builds trust, improves usability, and ensures your project remains relevant over time.