WordPress 
A software download is a deliverable that someone else must understand and use. Zipping your development folder can include the wrong files, omit a build step, or expose information that never belonged in a customer package. Packaging deserves its own release checklist.
The right structure depends on the product. A WordPress plugin, an editable web application, and a desktop utility each have different installation expectations. Start with the platform’s conventions and the delivery promise in your listing.
Define exactly what is being delivered
State whether the package contains editable source, compiled binaries, a ready-to-install extension, or a combination. List any external services or build tools the buyer needs. If the archive contains several installable components, explain which file is installed where.
For a source project, include setup and build instructions with supported versions. For a ready-to-install package, complete the required build process before creating the archive. Do not make a buyer discover an undocumented development command just to use the advertised feature.
Build from a controlled source state
Create the deliverable from a known version in your source history. Keep a clear record connecting the product version, source state, release notes, and distributed archive. Use the platform’s expected archive layout rather than nesting the application inside several unrelated directories.
Review bundled dependencies, assets, and license notices against their actual distribution requirements. Having a file in a public repository does not by itself tell you which rights accompany it. GitHub’s repository licensing documentation is a useful introduction to locating and communicating a project’s license; inspect the actual terms for everything you distribute.
Remove material that is not part of the product
Inspect the archive for credentials, database dumps, personal files, customer uploads, temporary logs, repository metadata, and abandoned experiments. Include only development or test tools that belong in the promised source distribution.
Provide safe configuration examples with placeholders where necessary. A customer should supply their own service credentials through the documented setup. Never ship a privileged key simply because it made the demonstration easier.
Install the exact archive in a fresh environment
Extract the release and follow the included instructions from start to finish. Complete the core task, check important failure behavior, and confirm the displayed version. Where updates are supported, test upgrading from a representative earlier release with existing data.
If the product includes a download entitlement or licensing integration, verify the permitted and denied paths with safe test accounts. Confirm that a private package is not accidentally exposed through a separate public storage URL.
Make the handoff unambiguous
- Use a recognizable product name and version in the filename.
- Include installation, requirements, and first-use instructions.
- Explain external accounts or paid dependencies.
- Include applicable license and third-party notices.
- Retain the exact distributed artifact for support and recovery.
- Check that the listing describes this release accurately.
Read planning updates and support before making long-term promises. A clean package makes the first purchase easier to fulfill and the next support conversation easier to investigate.