What are the potential problems of running a Beta version on a live board?

[PcosKat]

I understand that it's not recommended, and it's not supported, but I'm just curious as to the potential problems of running a beta version on a live board.

Thanks!

[Justin98TransAm]

i'm running the beta on 5 live boards, no issues at all. I love the new features :)

[Vtec44]

I'm running it on a live board, no biggie.

[Justin98TransAm]

vBulletin has done a great job with the beta software, it's more stable than a lot of other companies gold software. I wouldn't worry about running it on a live board too much, unless you rely in it for income or something maybe..

[SSSlippy]

The biggest issue is alot of plugins when saving variables have broken. If you are not profecient in using MySQL to fix these errors then u should not upgrade.

[PcosKat]

... I wouldn't worry about running it on a live board too much, unless you rely in it for income or something maybe..

Why, specifically? I'm not 'worried' about running it...simply looking for specifics as to what problems 'could' occur, and if any of them could be catastrophic.

Aside from issues with plug-ins, it doesn't look like anyone knows?

[Jason2]

I run BETA 5 on a live forum. I have a few plugins/hacks and no problems have arrised thus far.

Regards Jason :)

[KW802]

I understand that it's not recommended, and it's not supported, but I'm just curious as to the potential problems of running a beta version on a live board.

Thanks!If you're comfortable with beta software and are comfortable with any issues that might arise from it being a beta then the question of "What if something major changes between the current beta and the next beta?" is really the big unknown. While unlikely at this point, there is really nothing to stop the developers from totally gutting a feature and re-writing it between betas. At least with the RC versions you know that major re-writes are frozen and it's mostly bug cleaning.

[PcosKat]

...the question of "What if something major changes between the current beta and the next beta?" is really the big unknown.

That wasn't my question...

If you're comfortable with beta software and are comfortable with any issues that might arise from it being a beta...
My question had to do with the part in red.

[KW802]

That wasn't my question...


My question had to do with the part in red.As I said, the big question is really what if something major changes (since that'd likely break any custom templates and/or plugins). Nobody except for you can answer if you are comfortable with something breaking on your production site because it is using beta software. Like wise, nobody can answer what those problems might be with the core software because it is indeed beta software and not even an RC.

If you are comfortable with the fact that, after installing B6, that there might be a B7 that breaks your custom templates and/or add-ons, then there is really nothing from stopping you running it (as many other people are). If you even the slightest bit hesitant then I'd recommend waiting until at least the first RC before deploying it on a production site.

EDIT: A perfect example was seen earlier today when the first round of people upgrading from B5 to B6 experienced SQL errors trying to upgrade; if you're not comfortable with that occurring on your production site, then hold off with the betas.

[PcosKat]

As I said, the big question is...

With all due respect, rather than answering your own question, on this thread, would you mind if someone else could answer mine?

There is no issue regarding the competency of the staff that will be taking care of my upgrades - ok?

This is a hypothetical question that I'd like a succinct answer to - so that I can pass it on to someone else - ok?

I understand that people are running beta versions with no problems - ok?

Please...if anyone understands the original question and can answer it with an answer (not a question), and not a recommendation to 'hold off on upgrading', I'd REALLY appreciate it.

Sorry to get 'huffy', but I really didn't think this was a complicated question.

The biggest issue is alot of plugins when saving variables have broken.

If ^that's^ the only issue - then the question has been answered. I just need some clarity on this - preferably from someone from vB. Thanks.

[KW802]

Good luck getting an answer that you like since there really isn't anything else that somebody could possibly give as an answer.

Time & time again you get extremely combative with anybody who gives a response that you do not like or understand; perhaps instead of hostilities you should pause for a moment to reflect on the information people provide.

[carrlos27]

Live board....

Beta 5.....

No problems!