If it is back office settings, just tell the user that. If it is important enough to notify the user and may have ANY impact on the user, it is important enough to include release notes. There is nothing more nerve-wracking to a user than to open a new version of software and have it suddenly working differently! It may be better, but it is different.
Users must feel comfortable with their software, especially trading software. If you change it and the user knows *exactly* what has changed, he/she will feel comfortable with using the 98% that has NOT changed and can quickly learn the part that HAS changed. If the user doesn't know what has changed, then he/she is uncomfortable with ALL of the software and must check out all of the software to determine what has changed.
Also consider this... If a user sees a continually growing list of bug-fixes and enhancements to the software, it is concrete evidence that CyberCorp is working hard to add value to the user's trading experience. There is no better promotion than to show current and prospective users a list of continuing enhancements to their software. It demonstrates your commitment to your customers.
Below are some simple examples of release notes. It should take no more than 2 minutes to write this up. Also, here is a link to the QCharts Beta site - qcharts.com. Note that they publish release notes on the changes to each version. If you are concerned about security, you could set up a secure page just for registered users of CyberCorp products.
Regards,
Dan.
-------
Release 1.7.1 - Modification to backoffice settings. Does not address any know user bugs and does not affect user features.
Release 1.7.2 - Modification to backoffice settings. Users may notice the following changes...
Release 1.7.3 - Modification to backoffice settings. Fixes the following bugs... |