It's time I spelled out how things will work with regards to the upcoming beta programs of 2007.

At any given time, each beta program will float in one of these phases:

Typical Sling Beta-to-GM Milestones:

1. The sign up page: The sign up page is a simple form asking for your name and email address. Its purpose is to let us know that you wish to be notified when we're ready to recruit beta testers. You don't have to sign up to apply. Rather, the sign up is a convenience for those who otherwise might feel the need to check our website ad nauseum for the latest info.
   
   
2. The beta application form: Once we're about ready to start the program, I'll post an application form online. Filling out an application is not a guarantee of getting into the program. But it is a prerequisite.
   
   
3. Wave 1 testers: From among the completed beta applications, we select the first wave of beta testers. Due to the popularity of Sling's beta programs, we've had to instigate a pecking order of sorts. Nearly every Wave 1 tester is a former star tester from a previous Sling beta program, but sometimes we need to mix in completely new people, so don't let this rule of thumb dissuade you from applying. We let the Wave 1 testers check out the new product anywhere from
   several days to several weeks--depending on the program--before more people are added. We know their first names by heart.
   
   
4. Wave 2+ testers: As the new product becomes increasingly stable, we add more people to the beta program, including people completely new to the Sling experience. To be considered, you have to complete an application for that particular beta program. No exceptions. (What that #2 item above is all about.)
   
   
5. Public beta (software): After the private beta folks have put the software through its paces, we'll generally transition to a public beta. This means we post the software online, accessible by all. If you weren't in the private beta, this is your chance to bend our ear before we officially release it.
   
   
6. GM: GM stands for Golden Master and is the common slang tech-business geeks use to indicate that a product is ready to ship. Often accompanied by a blurry photo of an ecstatic product development team. (Sample attached.)

If at any time you have a question or concern about Sling's beta programs, feel free to drop me a line: srylander@slingmedia.com.

Notice: This article is subject to an occasional tweak as the year progresses. I'll flag any significant changes, though. Thanks for your interest in Sling's beta programs --

Sharon Rylander / Beta Manager