What is the main objective of continuous integration in software development?

The primary goal of continuous integration (CI) in software development is to automate the process of testing and integrating code changes frequently, ideally multiple times a day. This approach allows developers to detect issues, bugs, and integration challenges at an early stage, which helps reduce the costs associated with fixing problems later in the development cycle. By regularly merging code into a shared repository, CI ensures that the application stays in a deployable state and fosters collaboration among team members.

Continuous integration promotes a culture where developers can make small, incremental changes rather than large, risky updates. This practice not only improves the overall quality of the software but also accelerates the delivery process. Automated testing within the CI pipeline runs tests every time new code changes are introduced, providing immediate feedback on the impact of those changes and ensuring that the codebase remains stable and functional.

In contrast, some options focus on manual processes, final checks, or version control without addressing the automation and early detection aspects that are fundamental to continuous integration. These approaches do not align with the CI philosophy of fostering a streamlined and efficient development workflow.