STAC-22163: draft release strategy

Author: deontaljaard

setup/release-notes/README.md

@@ -4,4 +4,58 @@ description: SUSE Observability Self-hosted
 
 # Release Notes
 
-Check the release notes for the latest features, enhancements, and bug fixes in StackState.
+Check the release notes for the latest features, enhancements, and bug fixes in SUSE Observability.
+
+# Release Strategy
+
+## Overview
+
+This section outlines the release strategy for SUSE Observability, including its core components:
+
+- SUSE Observability Platform (Helm Chart)
+- SUSE Observability Agents (Helm Chart)
+- SUSE Observability Rancher UI Extension
+
+The goal of this strategy is to ensure users always have access to the latest features, security updates, and
+compatibility across all components.
+
+## Release Cadence
+
+Each component follows a rolling release model, with no fixed cadence:
+
+- SUSE Observability Platform: Regularly updated to introduce new features, enhancements, and stability improvements.
+- SUSE Observability Agents: Released as frequently as necessary, especially for security patches and performance optimizations.
+- SUSE Observability Rancher UI Extension: Updated alongside major platform releases (Rancher and SUSE Observability) to maintain compatibility and user experience.
+
+## Compatibility Guidelines
+
+- The latest SUSE Observability Agent is always recommended, as it includes critical security fixes and performance improvements.
+- The latest Agent is compatible with all supported versions of the SUSE Observability Platform.
+- Users should ensure they are running the recommended version of the SUSE Observability Rancher UI Extension
+  corresponding to their Platform version.
+
+## Upgrade Recommendations
+
+### SUSE Observability Agents
+
+- Always upgrade to the latest version to benefit from security fixes and performance enhancements.
+- Agents are designed to be backward-compatible with all supported Platform versions.
+- Review release notes for an overview of changes made before upgrading.
+
+### SUSE Observability Platform
+
+- Upgrade to newer versions as they become available to gain access to new features and stability improvements.
+- Review release notes for potential breaking changes before upgrading.
+
+### SUSE Observability Rancher UI Extension
+
+- Ensure the UI extension version matches the recommended version for your Rancher deployment.
+- Upgrades and compatibility are typically aligned with Rancher and SUSE Observability platform releases.
+
+## Support Policy
+
+- Latest SUSE Observability Agent versions are fully supported.
+- Previous SUSE Observability Platform versions receive support for a defined period, typically covering the latest release and the two most recent patch versions. Upgrading to the latest version is strongly encouraged.
+- Security patches will be prioritized for the latest releases of all components.
+
+For questions or upgrade guidance, please reach out to our support team.