Beta 2010 Checklist:

This podcast covers what can be done to best be prepared to participate in the SolidWorks beta program.  The checklist discussed are steps to get the most out of beta and helping the community test the next major release of SolidWorks.  Topics covered:

- How to get notified

- Reviewing the What's New PDF

- Reviewing the Release Notes

- Verifying system and hardware requirements

- Planning a scope

- Beta data-sets

- Reporting bugs

- Options for beta installs

- Tips from Matt Lombard at DezignStuff

Every year beta comes out about the same time and many users are not sure about if they should participate in the beta program.  Granted, beta testing is not for everyone but it can give you insight on what is to come and the changes that are in store for features you may use everyday.  Whether you test to make sure the next release is going to be address current issues or to see if there are any major reasons to upgrade at release, the choice is yours.  Maybe you are like me and enjoy testing the latest and greatest, either way, it is an opportunity to contribute whatever you can to the user community.

This is not about testing for SolidWorks Corporation but more about getting into the software and determining what has changed and how it will impact your usage.  I personally am not motivated by the prizes but more about what easter eggs I can find that are undocumented and understanding the impact to design approach or workflow. Beta is what you make of it as long as you have the right mindset going into the beta jungle.  Hope to see you all on the beta forums once 2010 launches.  Make sure you sign up in the Customer Portal, click on "My Profile" and check the "Notify me for beta programs" so you know when SolidWorks Beta 2010 goes live. ~Lou

Remember to check out the SolidWorks: Heard! Blog and to follow me on Twitter and THE HEaRD!

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