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ABS Major Update: Behind the Scenes of Our Biggest Release

The story behind our largest ABS update ever - from Quality Assurance improvements to browser blocking crisis and emergency response.

Our recent ABS update represents the largest single release in years, driven by both planned improvements and unexpected challenges that created a "perfect storm" of technical issues.

The Quality Assurance Project

In February 2023, we identified a concerning trend: many ABS users were maintaining inaccurate policy and account data, which directly compromises business reporting and decision-making. We launched a comprehensive Quality Assurance (QA) project with three key components:

  1. Automatic error correction during data entry
  2. Real-time warnings for errors that can't be auto-fixed
  3. Cleanup tools for historical data issues

Thanks to our dedicated beta testing group who spent months refining these features, the QA enhancements now touch every aspect of your account and policy data.

The Crisis: Browser Blocking

In October 2023, Google Chrome suddenly blocked access to our website, considering our server's operating system outdated and potentially unsafe. Within weeks, Edge followed suit. This created an immediate crisis:

  • Users couldn't download updates
  • Our WebReg auto-renewal system was at risk
  • Agencies approaching their renewal dates faced potential license lapses

The Emergency Response

We had to simultaneously:

  • Purchase and configure a new server
  • Rebuild our entire website from scratch
  • Recreate the WebReg system with new ABS integration
  • Complete QA testing under extreme time pressure

When my development computer's motherboard failed during this crunch period, we knew we couldn't finish everything perfectly before the first renewal deadline.

The Difficult Decision

Facing November renewals with blocked browsers, we prioritized keeping agencies operational over perfect software. We released the update with known bugs rather than risk license lapses - a painful but necessary choice.

The Aftermath and Recovery

The initial release handled licensing successfully but contained bugs that required several rapid-fire updates. Most reported issues couldn't be reproduced in our environment, but we fixed them quickly. Recent versions have resolved the major problems.

Moving Forward

  • Version 2.21.59.522 restores automatic update downloads
  • The QA enhancements are now fully operational
  • Our security infrastructure is significantly improved

The Bigger Picture

This crisis reflects increased cybersecurity measures across the internet. Chrome and Edge blocked our site as a precautionary measure, not because of an actual attack. However, cyber threats to American businesses are real and growing.

Recommendations for Your Agency

  • Implement passwords in ABS (we may require this in future versions)
  • Backup data regularly - protect what you can't afford to lose
  • Evaluate your overall security posture

We apologize for the inconvenience during this transition period. Your patience and understanding helped us navigate extraordinary circumstances while maintaining service to all agencies.

Continue reporting bugs and suggesting improvements - your feedback drives ABS development.