CNCF-hosted Co-located Events North America 2024

Feature flags offer powerful control over software releases, but they introduce hidden complexities in version management and user adoption that can catch development teams off guard. As application states multiply and the definition of a "version" blurs, teams struggle with maintaining compatibility and ensuring smooth updates across diverse platforms and user segments. To address these challenges, we propose a strategy of treating feature flag rollouts as code changes, favoring smaller, more frequent updates over large-scale alterations. This talk will unveil the often-overlooked costs of feature flags, explore their impact on versioning and user experience, and provide attendees with practical strategies for mitigating these issues. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to navigate the complex landscape of feature flag implementation, balancing the benefits of flexibility with the need for manageable, user-friendly software evolution.