Feature flag ethics

Feature flags let teams release features to specific user segments, test variations, or gradually roll out changes.^[1] This technical capability creates ethical questions: Who gets access to new features first? Who gets excluded? Are you testing risky changes on vulnerable users? Releasing premium features only to high-value users creates inequality. Testing potentially problematic features on less-engaged users treats them as disposable. Running experiments without informing users that their experience differs from others raises consent issues. Geographic or demographic segmentation can inadvertently discriminate or reinforce biases.

To avoid these pitfalls, define acceptable criteria for segmentation and unacceptable ones. Document why specific user groups receive certain features. Consider whether users should know they're in a test group and obtain consent when appropriate. Avoid using feature flags to give advantaged users even more advantages while withholding improvements from those who need them most. Review flag strategies during sprint planning, not just implementation.