Implement a clearly defined release strategy that distinguishes between different types of changes. Create separate workflows for patch releases (typo fixes, safe dependency updates, low-risk fixes) and non-patch releases (features, breaking changes):
For patch releases:
For non-patch releases:
4.13, 5.0)Example workflow for non-patch release:
# Create a new branch for the release
git checkout -b 5.0
# Make and commit your changes
...
# Open a release PR tracking all changes
# Example: https://github.com/expressjs/express/pull/2682
# After review and approval, merge and publish
npm version minor # or major for breaking changes
git push origin --tags
npm publish
This structured approach ensures changes are properly tracked, reviewed, and deployed according to their risk level, making the release process more predictable and maintainable.