Maintaining packages
Once you've created and published your package, here is what's involved in it's ongoing maintenance
Once you've created and published your package, what's involved in its ongoing maintenance?
When a new version of Umbraco is released you should test your package on this latest version to confirm it still works.
The current package repository on Our does not allow you to edit your list of supported versions. The only way to do this, at present, is to upload the package file again and set the full range of supported versions at the same time. You can edit your packages, including uploading new files, from your packages profile page. As this is a replacement file you should archive the previous one and then mark the new one as 'current'.
It would also be helpful to ensure that the 'Package Compatibility' details are correct on the package's public page on Our.
Make the changes required so that your code works on the latest version of Umbraco. Next you need to create a new version of your package. Read the Creating a Package article for guidelines on creating the package zip file using the backoffice.
To publish your new version on Our, visit your packages profile page and select the package that you are updating.
- On the 'Package Details' section of the form update the 'Current Version'. You should also add some details about which versions of your package are for which version of Umbraco in the 'Package Description'. For example:
Specify version info
- On the 'Package Files' section of the form you can upload a new file and then make it the 'current' one. You don't have to archive the previous version as you are allowed multiple active ones that will all appear in the Package Files list, for example:
Package files list
You can only have one 'current' file - this is the version that will be downloaded from the main button on the package's public page:
Download current version button
If you want to encourage feedback, feature requests, and issue reports then you should add a forum to your package. You can manage your forums from your packages profile page:
Link to manage forums
To add a new forum you will need to specify a name and a description, such as:
Create a new forum
Any forum you create will appear under the Package Files list on the package's public page:
Forum list
If you are the sole maintainer of a package then it's a good idea to find someone to help you. If you have accepted pull requests from people then why not ask them if they would like to collaborate?
If someone requests a feature that you think is a good fit but you don't have the time, then ask that person if they would like to work with you to get it added.
If you'd like to find a collaborator you are welcome to raise a 'Request for Collaborators' via the Umbraco Package Team tracker.
You can assign other Our members to the 'team' for your package. Team members will see the package in their list to maintain, and will be able to edit its details. You can manage your team of collaborators from your packages profile page:
Link to manage team
If your package should no longer be used (perhaps it is now too old, or it has been superseded by another one that you recommend instead), then you should update your package accordingly via your packages profile page:
At the bottom of the 'Package Details' form, tick to say 'Retired' and specify the reason for the retirement.
Flag package as retired
Moving 'Next' will save your changes, and the retired status and reason will be displayed prominently on the package's public page:
Retired display on package page
Last modified 13d ago