Quick Definition:
Continuous Integration (CI) is the practice of merging all developers’ working copies to a shared mainline several times a day. Each merge is then automatically built and tested to identify errors as quickly as possible.
Benefits for the Project
- Reduce Integration Risk: Small, frequent merges are much easier to manage than one large merge at the end of the project.
- Faster Feedback: Automated builds and tests provide immediate feedback to developers.
- Higher Quality: CI helps catch bugs early in the development process.
- Improved Predictability: CI provides a clear and up-to-date view of the project’s status.
The CI Pipeline
A typical CI pipeline includes code commit, automated build, automated unit testing, and automated reporting.
