# Publishing a Product

# Publishing a Product

A product can only be published when at least one valid published release with a file exists.

If a developer tries to publish too early, Nord Forge returns:

```text
product_requires_release_before_publish
```

## Recommended publishing flow

1. Create the product.
2. Keep it in Draft.
3. Complete the product information.
4. Upload the first release ZIP/file.
5. Add the changelog and compatibility information.
6. Publish the release.
7. Publish the product.
8. Confirm that it appears correctly in the marketplace/store.

This rule prevents products with no usable download from reaching customers.