# 014: How I Avoid Feature Flag Fiascos
¡Hola, Tech Writing Friends!
Today, we’ll discuss something that often goes unnoticed until it becomes a problem: feature flags.
They can be a developer’s best friend and a tech writer’s mortal enemy.
Here’s how I avoid feature flag fiascos in documentation…
What Are Feature Flags?
First things first.
Feature flags (or feature toggles) are tools used in software development to control the rollout of new features and updates.
Think of them as switches: they can turn a feature on or off without deploying new code.
Feature flags are used for:
Gradual rollouts to minimize risk.
Running A/B tests to evaluate different user experiences.
Disabling unfinished or experimental features.
Sounds pretty useful, right? Well… only when they’re properly managed!
Why Feature Flags Can Lead to Fiascos
While feature flags are powerful, they can also introduce chaos when not documented or communicated effectively.
Here’s what can go wrong…
User Confusion
Imagine users encountering different experiences because a flag was toggled for some but not others — without explanation!
Inconsistent Documentation
If your docs don’t address the state of a feature (enabled or disabled), users are left guessing.
Tech Debt from Forgotten Flags
Flags that aren’t cleaned up clutter your codebase and make maintenance harder.
Feature flags are like gremlins. They’re cute and helpful at first but quickly become a nightmare when left unchecked.
The Role of Tech Writers in Feature Flag Success
Tech writers are uniquely positioned to prevent feature flag fiascos. Here's how:
Collaborate with Developers Early
Be part of the planning process when flags are introduced.
Ask questions like, “What’s the purpose of this flag?” and “What are the conditions for enabling/disabling it?”
Document Active and Inactive Flags
Ensure release notes and user-facing docs clearly state which features are behind flags.
For example:
“This feature is currently in beta and available to 10% of users. Contact support to opt in.”
Create Internal Documentation
Maintain an internal registry of flags, including:
Flag name and purpose
Teams responsible
Activation/deactivation plans
Communicate Flag Lifecycles
Work with product and engineering teams to ensure flags have clear expiration timelines.
Pro Tips for Handling Feature Flags
Centralize Feature Flag Management
Use a shared tool or document to track all active flags across teams.
Document Dependencies
Note which features rely on specific flags.
This prevents confusion during updates.
Plan for Sunset Dates
Every flag should have a “retirement” plan to avoid cluttering the codebase.
Update User Docs in Real Time
When a flag state changes (e.g., a beta feature is fully released), ensure your docs reflect the update immediately.
Your Next Action Steps
Ready to avoid feature flag fiascos?
Audit Your Docs: Check if your current documentation addresses all active feature flags.
Build Relationships with Developers: Regularly attend sprint meetings to stay in the loop on new flags.
Create a Feature Flag Registry: Use a spreadsheet or tool like Jira to track flags, their purposes, and timelines.
Set a Review Schedule: Periodically review and update documentation to reflect changes in flag states.
Feature flags don’t have to be a source of chaos.
Stay proactive and collaborate with your team!
Turn fiascos into feature flag finesse. 😎
Happy documenting,
Quetzalli
