[DEVOPS] Make releases manual

[MoeidHeidari]

Make Releases Manual (with Controlled Trigger)

Problem

Currently, merging a Pull Request into pre-release or main automatically triggers a full release after the build completes.

This automated approach has several drawbacks:

• No control over when a release actually happens
• Packages can be released unintentionally (even if the merge was only for testing or hotfix validation)
• Lack of final human approval before publishing to users/customers
• Increased risk of releasing incomplete or unwanted versions

This is not considered a best practice for production releases.

Proposed Solution

Make the release process manual while keeping version bumping automated.

Key Changes:

• Use workflow_dispatch to trigger releases manually instead of automatic triggers on merge
• Create a dedicated Release Pipeline that allows users to:
  • Select the branch (main or pre-release)
  • Choose a pre-built package/version that is ready to be published
  • Trigger the release with a single button click

Implementation Details:

• Switch release workflow to workflow_dispatch for manual triggering
• Add Environment Protection in GitHub Actions:
  • Create a new environment called production
  • Require reviewer approval before the release can proceed
• Add workflow inputs for better control:
  • Version number (pre-filled or selectable)
  • Release notes / changelog

Nice to Have

• Add a checkbox option: "Also publish Helm chart for this version"
• When checked, the Helm chart will be published automatically with the exact same version as the package
• This helps enforce synchronization between application package and Helm chart versions

Benefits

• Full control over release timing
• Human approval gate before publishing
• Reduced risk of accidental releases
• Easier coordination with team and stakeholders
• Better alignment between package and Helm versions

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Acceptance Criteria

• Release is no longer triggered automatically on merge to main or pre-release
• Release workflow uses workflow_dispatch with manual trigger
• A production environment is created with required approver review
• Users can select branch and version before releasing
• Optional checkbox to publish Helm chart for the same version
• Clear success/failure notifications after release

[jmac052002]

I will work on this one!

[jmac052002]

I should have this finished later today I have already been working on it.

[MoeidHeidari]

@jmac052002 keep your time . it is fine. thanks for working on it