[wp-testers] 2.9-beta-1 is available

[Gene Steinberg]

On Nov 17, 2009, at 7:51 AM, Otto wrote:

> Gene,
> 
> There's no way to test compatibility automatically. Provably
> impossible. All WordPress could possibly test on an automated basis is
> that it loads and doesn't cause a fatal error (WordPress itself does
> that on plugin activation).
> 
> Real "compatibility" is only determined by usage. Does the plugin do
> what it's supposed to? Which features are broken? But this is a
> judgment call, not something you can automate.
> 
> Compatibility is therefore determined by users testing it. The Extend
> pages have that box on there to let people say whether it's compatible
> with new releases. There's no "2.9" listed because WordPress 2.9 does
> not exist yet. This is a BETA release. Things are expected to not
> work. Having people report plugin compatibility on those pages with
> beta releases is unfair to the plugin authors. If you find
> incompatibilities in a Beta release, you should be either contacting
> the plugin author about it, or finding a new plugin to replace that
> one you're using.
> 
> Anyway, if you want to test your plugins early, go ahead. If not,
> don't. And if you're unhappy with that, then don't upgrade until other
> people test the plugins for you. Or hire somebody. Or just don't
> upgrade.
> These are your choices.
> 
> -Otto
> Sent from Memphis, TN, United States
> ______________________________


OK, let's summarize:

1. scribu's statement that "we have an automated tool for that now on Extend" is wrong based on what everyone else says.

2. Although there was a plugin compatibility page for previous versions of WordPress while they were under development, there won't be one for 2.9? Am I taking your statement as accurate here? Why the change?

3. I understand that in a beta test, you're on your own. Don't patronize me! I was probably beta testing products before you were born.

Peace,
Gene