How to Write Release Notes Your Users Actually Read

How to Write Release Notes Your Users Actually Read

You invest significant effort into developing new product features, enhancements, and bug fixes. If your users aren't engaging with your release notes or getting the message, all that hard work can feel unnoticed. So how can you create release notes that users genuinely look forward to and actually read?

Here are actionable tips to make your release notes engaging and effective:

1. Clearly Highlight User Benefits

Users care primarily about one thing: "What's in it for me?" Always frame your updates from the user's perspective:

• What pain point does this solve?
• How does this improve their daily workflow?
• What specific benefits will they see immediately?

Tip: Rather than "Improved loading speed," say, "Your dashboard now loads 2x faster, saving you valuable time every morning."

2. Be Concise and Specific

Nobody enjoys sifting through lengthy, technical documents. Be concise, clear, and specific. Highlight key improvements succinctly, and avoid overly technical jargon unless your audience expects it.

3. Use Engaging Formats

Break the monotony of plain text by:

• Bullet points for clarity
• Short paragraphs with clear headlines
• Emojis to highlight exciting features (sparingly and thoughtfully)

For example:

🚀 New! Instant reporting saves you hours each week.

4. Prioritize Updates by Impact

List your updates in order of importance to the user—not your internal priorities. Lead with impactful improvements or new features that significantly enhance user experience or solve major pain points.

5. Incorporate Visuals

Images, gifs, or short videos demonstrating new features can dramatically boost engagement. A quick visual demo can immediately show users the value without requiring them to read extensively.

Tip: Include a short GIF showing exactly how a new feature works, encouraging users to try it immediately.

6. Add Personality and Brand Voice

Your release notes don't have to be dry. Infuse your brand's personality to make reading them enjoyable. Users appreciate authenticity and a bit of humor or warmth where appropriate.

7. Invite Feedback and Interaction

Encourage engagement by inviting feedback directly in your release notes. Ask users what they think about recent changes or suggest they contact support or engage through surveys or social media.

8. Consistency Builds Anticipation

When release notes are consistently informative and engaging, users will start anticipating and looking forward to them. Establish a regular schedule or format that your users can rely on.

By following these guidelines, your release notes will transform from overlooked text into a valuable touchpoint with your users. Engaging release notes don't just inform—they reinforce your value, foster trust, and drive meaningful interaction.

Try UpdateRelay and create engaging release notes today!