What is continuous integration? | Definition TechTarget
Summary
This common practice is used to expand on CI after the build stage by deploying those code changes to a testing or production environment as appropriate. The rapid, cyclical nature of CI often results in many repeated tests, which can help build confidence in the evolving codebase. If something doesnt work -- perhaps a unique algorithm approach causes an unwanted rounding error -- it can be quickly documented, changed, adjusted, corrected or rolled back. This includes access to databases with meaningful data; similar network characteristics; services, such as security; and system resources, such as processors and memory, that mirror production. A development team can use automation in the CI setup process to incorporate integrating code, building, validating and testing, which reduces the time to find bugs and enables faster feedback than when these tasks are carried out manually.