Few things conjure up such mixed emotions as an impending software release, at least for a programmer. On one had your tired and you just want to get the thing done, but on the other hand you know that launching your app will likely mean the inevitable call from co-workers that "the server's blowing up" or "I can't get to my email". To our friends outside the IT world, these little annoyances might seem very severe, but in reality they are just simple teething problems that every project has whether it's a new web app or a recently constructed building.

Having recently purchased a home I realize that no job is ever done perfectly 100% of the time. I've had my share of nit-picky discussions with contractors about how something didn't look right, or can't you put another coat of paint on that. I try to offer helpful criticism, but I'm no licensed contractor and it's doubtful if I'd even pick up on the major flaws if there were any. The same holds true for software and technical systems. When someone is screaming at you from the other end of the phone because their report won't print out, it's hard to not take it personally. But you've got to keep telling yourself that it's not a serious problem that can't be fixed. You've also got to reassure the other party that the problem can be fixed, and done so in a timely manner.

Sure it adds a little bit of pressure, and that's not exactly a bad thing. In this situation the worst thing you can do is tell yourself that it's not a serious problem because if you do so chances are you'll never get around to fixing it. Not only is this frustrating for you users, but it also undermines your credibility as a competent tech person. That being said, you also shouldn't try to live up to unachievable demands either. No system is 100% perfect, and no deployment of ANYTHING goes off without a hitch. Do yourself a favor and prepare yourself to fix the small stuff, plan for unlikely big stuff, and most importantly let your users know what to expect. The more it seems that things are being done in a careful and well planned manner, the more confidence your users will have in the entire process. When all is said an done you'll have a feeling of well being and accomplishment, and hopefully some free time for a little R&R.