Release Lifecycle
The standardized workflow for data selection, preparation, review, and handoff of finalized data to Bridge Analytics for public release.
Stage 1: Data freeze#
A data freeze occurs approximately one year after data collection begins for a given cohort. All subsequent stages for a given release cycle are based solely on the data included in that freeze.
Stage 2: Select measures for release#
The DCC and SMEs compile a list of candidate variables for the upcoming release. This list is circulated to SMEs, who label each variable as Include or Exclude (e.g., administrative fields and open-text responses are commonly excluded). The DCC consolidates responses and submits the finalized list to CAS for approval. Only approved measures advance to implementation.
Stage 3: Beta release cycles#
Beta Releases (BR) are pre-release versions of the release data used for internal quality control and review. These are shared with the DCC and SMEs to identify issues and validate data. Multiple BR iterations typically occur prior to a public release, enabling staged review and refinement before final release.
Lasso ingestion#
Data for approved measures are ingested into Lasso, initiated by completion of a BR Hot Sheet that:
- Confirms data readiness for ingestion.
- Identifies potential ingestion or compliance issues (e.g., missing participants, malformed files).
- Documents responsible parties and release notes.
Data review and issue resolution#
Once ingested, the BR data are available in release-ready format for review by SMEs and analysts, who report any issues or requested data updates to the DCC. These are triaged, prioritized, and assigned to specific target beta and/or public releases to be resolved. When a BR includes requested updates and/or resolved issues, SMEs are required to do a final review and provide sign-off to confirm successful implementation or resolution.
Stage 4: Final data review & sign-off#
The DCC coordinates a final review of release-ready BR data in Lasso. This is the final stage of prerelease QC, verifying that critical issues have been resolved and the dataset is ready for release. A final review of the official release documentation is also conducted to ensure accuracy and alignment with the specific release, including review of instrument READMEs (e.g. data warnings that give researchers critical data usage information) and documentation of deferred or unresolved issues.
When review is complete, SMEs provide final sign-off via the Data Readiness Checklist (link to be provided).
Stage 5: Public release#
Finalized data are transferred to Bridge Analytics for public release.