Which statement best describes Continuous Integration?

Continuous Integration (CI) is best described as a practice where developers integrate and verify their work frequently. This approach emphasizes the importance of regularly merging code changes into a shared repository, which then triggers automated builds and tests. The goal is to identify and address integration issues as they arise, rather than delaying them until later stages of development. By integrating frequently—often multiple times a day—teams can ensure that their code remains compatible and robust, leading to higher quality software and faster iterations.

This methodology fosters collaboration among team members, as it encourages frequent updates and communication regarding changes, reducing the likelihood of major conflicts or bugs. It also allows for quicker feedback cycles from automated testing, enabling teams to pinpoint issues early and maintain a consistent pace in development.

Other options suggest limitations or misrepresentations of CI. Some present it as occurring at specific points in the development lifecycle rather than as a continuous process, while others restrict its applicability to certain types of development, which is not in line with the broader application of CI across various software development practices.