The Basics of Version Control

To get to the point where you can fully understand this picture and have a smile on your face, it is necessary to proceed gradually. First, you need to know what a Version Control System (VCS) is.

Version control systems are tools that help a developer team manage changes to source code over time. These systems keep track of every modification to the code in a special kind of database. If a mistake is made, developers can turn back the clock and compare earlier versions of the code to help fix the error while minimizing disruption to all team members.

The developers working in a team continually write new source code and change existing source code. The code for a project, app, or software component is typically organized in a folder structure or "file tree". While one developer works on a new feature, another may fix an unrelated bug by altering code; each may modify various parts of the file tree.

Changes made in one part of the software can be incompatible with those made by another developer working simultaneously. This problem should be discovered and solved orderly without blocking the work of the rest of the team. Further, any change can introduce new bugs in all software development, and new software cannot be trusted until it is tested. So, testing and development proceed together until a new version is ready.

Version control systems assist teams in monitoring each change by contributors, ensuring that concurrent work doesn't conflict.

Good version control software supports a developer's preferred workflow without imposing one particular working method. Ideally, it also works on any platform rather than dictate what operating system or toolchain developers must use. Great version control systems facilitate a smooth and continuous flow of changes to the code rather than the frustrating and clumsy mechanism of file locking - giving the green light to one developer at the expense of blocking the progress of others.

Version control is essential to modern software teams' professional practices. Individual software developers accustomed to working with a capable version control system in their teams typically recognize the excellent value version control gives them, even on small solo projects. Once accustomed to the powerful benefits of version control systems, many developers wouldn't consider working without it, even for non-software projects. For a more immersive experience about version control, make sure to check out our Version Control with Git Online Training.

Version control isn't just about helping teamwork. Even if you are the only developer, version control will help you keep track of all changes, modifications, and bugs, and eventually, your project be organized.