Why There Is No FL Studio 13: Understanding The Release Strategy
In the world of digital audio workstations (DAWs), FL Studio has been a stalwart for musicians and producers for over two decades. Celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2018, Image-Line, the developer behind FL Studio, has made a strategic choice to release the next major version as FL Studio 20. This decision has left many users curious and wondering about the logic behind skipping FL Studio 13. In this article, we will explore the reasoning behind this release strategy and how it impacts the future of the program.
The Celebration of 20 Years
The year 2018 marked a significant milestone for FL Studio, as it celebrated its 20th Anniversary. To commemorate this occasion, Image-Line decided to release FL Studio 20, aligning the release numberwith the milestone. This approach not only honours the legacy of the software but also serves as a nod to its growing community of users.
Understanding the Release Strategy
So, why did Image-Line choose to release FL Studio 20 instead of FL Studio 13?
1. Avoiding Numerical Egophily
Some Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) adhere strictly to numerical sequencing for their releases. However, this can sometimes lead to confusion among users who may associate certain numbers with specific features or improvements. By skipping over FL Studio 13, Image-Line aims to avoid any potential discrepancy in user perceptions.
2. Strategic Marketing and Perception
The release of FL Studio 20 could be seen as a strategic move to create a sense of new beginnings. Numbers in the 20s often carry a feeling of progress and innovation, which can be psychologically appealing to users. This new release number can also create a fresh start for FL Studio, signaling that the latest version comes with significant updates and improvements.
3. Aligning with Age
According to Image-Line, the numbering system for major releases will now represent the age of the program at the time of the last major release. This means that each new release number will directly correlate with the age of the software. For example, the next release after FL Studio 20 would be FL Studio 21, as it will be one year after the 20th Anniversary.
Following this logic, there would be no FL Studio 13 because the version that was released after the 12th Anniversary would be FL Studio 13, which was not released.
How It Impacts Future Releases
The release of FL Studio 20, and the subsequent naming convention, will have significant implications for future releases of the software. Here’s what users and developers can expect:
1. Future Releasenums Will Reflect the Age of the Program
Future major releases of FL Studio will follow a chronological progression based on the age of the software. This means that the next major release after FL Studio 20 will be FL Studio 21, reflecting the one-year mark from the 20th Anniversary. Subsequent releases will continue to reflect the program's age, ensuring a clear and consistent numbering system.
2. Enhanced User Comfort
By using numbers that align with the program's age, Image-Line aims to provide a more comfortable and familiar experience for users. This approach helps in reducing any confusion and ensures that users can easily track the software's development over time.
The Importance of Consistency and Transparency
The decision to skip over FL Studio 13 and implement a new numbering system demonstrates Image-Line's commitment to consistency and transparency. By providing a clear rationale and a future-forward plan, the company can ensure that users remain engaged and informed about the software's evolution.
Conclusion
Skipping FL Studio 13 was a strategic decision by Image-Line to align with the 20th Anniversary of FL Studio. The numbered progression based on the age of the program ensures a transparent and consistent update process. As users eagerly await future releases, it's clear that Image-Line is committed to delivering a software that meets the evolving needs of producers and musicians around the world. Whether you're a seasoned FL Studio user or just beginning your journey, this new release strategy sets the stage for a future filled with innovative updates and exciting features.
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