Continuous integration (CI) is a key element of DevOps. Designed to automatically test the quality of the code during application updates, it facilitates and accelerates the work of the developers while ensuring better collaboration within the teams.
Would you like to learn more about continuous integration in DevOps? The expert consultants from Gologic inform you on the subject!
What is continuous integration in DevOps?
Continuous integration brings together a series of actions that make it possible to automate code verification when developing or updating an application. Above all, this function is intended for developers to allow them to perform unit testing on the code before it goes into production.
Continuous integration software therefore makes it possible to:
- Regularly and quickly modify the code of a given application;
- Perform automated tests to verify that the code doesn’t contain any errors or affect the software components contract;
- Share the code in a common repository.
That way, no modification to the source code will be advanced before being verified! If the system finds an error, the developer will be notified of it quickly and can make adjustments. Otherwise, the update will be advanced to the next stage of continuous delivery.
Understanding the CI/CD pathway
In DevOps, continuous integration is the first element of the deployment cycle. When there are changes to be made, CI progresses as follows:
- Construction: the developer creates the code on a planning software external, to the source code and then transmits it on a shared network;
- Testing: the new code is sent to the continuous integration software for testing;
- Integration: if it is functional, the code is then added to the common repository.
This is then followed by continuous deployment (CD). Once the code modifications have been made and added to the repository, the link will be made between the development and system operations teams.
In a word: continuous integration links the teams by automating the processes, increasing the monitoring in the modifications, and facilitating the implementation of the new code.
The advantages of continuous integration in DevOps
Collaboration and fewer errors
The tool provides automated testing that reduces the margin of error and ensures the proper functioning of the applications during modifications.
Continuous integration in DevOps also lets you make several modifications at the same time and on the same code base, all without pausing the site or application or affecting its functioning by causing technical problems.
Before, several developers worked on the same application code and integrated their changes centrally without testing. Many integration defects might occur without being detected quickly, and they remain unsolved.
Save time and increase productivity
Continuous integration in DevOps also allows you to reduce time-consuming manual tasks. These are now accelerated and automated. The tool offers considerable time savings to developers, who can focus more on the tasks with higher added value.
In addition, by identifying errors in the code, you avoid wasting time-solving problems. Continuous integration lets you meet the client’s needs faster and ensure higher satisfaction.
Better visibility and synergy
Like any other DevOps element, continuous integration ensures better collaboration and communication between the teams. It allows bigger teams to work together on the same application and better follow the deployment cycle.
To apply them, there is a series of DevOps tools that allow you to plan, collaborate, and check the update status on an application. That way, you enjoy a fluid, efficient, and controlled continuous deployment cycle!
Get expert DevOps advice
Do you want to enhance your understanding of CI/CD deployment? Take advantage of Gologic’s expertise to implement or optimize continuous integration management within your company! Explore our services or contact us to learn more about our strategic approach.
