At what stage should the deployment plan be initiated?

The deployment plan should be initiated as soon as possible because starting the planning process early helps to ensure that all necessary considerations are addressed well in advance of the actual deployment. This includes identifying potential risks, understanding resource requirements, establishing timelines, and coordinating among stakeholders. By initiating the deployment plan early, the team can gather feedback, make adjustments, and ensure a smoother transition into production.

Starting the deployment planning process early also facilitates better communication among all stakeholders involved in the project, allowing for a shared understanding of expectations and responsibilities. It can also help prevent rushed decisions that might occur if the plan is left to the end of the development cycle, which can lead to complications during deployment.