> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.dfc-standard.org/dfc-standard-documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.dfc-standard.org/dfc-standard-documentation/dfc-use-cases/contributing/general-decisions/updates-to-the-ontology/major-releases-procedure.md).

# Major releases procedure

A major release consists of significant changes, that are not backwards compatible (i.e. breaking changes).

A major release must be reviewed and signed off by at least 2 members of the ontology team.

All partner platforms will be notified through their contact email. Platforms must respond confirming acceptance of the release before proceeding to public notification.

A major release will then be publicly notified (a minimum of 10 days in advance of release) by broadcast on Slack & Github.

After the appropriate notice period, the release will be marked as "Latest Release"