Source Code Management
Definition
Source code management (SCM) is the practice of tracking and managing changes to software code, typically implemented using version control systems (VCS). These tools track modifications to a source code repository and help resolve merge conflicts.
Advantages of Source Code Management
SCM has a lot of useful features that can make your work even more effective and more manageable.
SCM is used for tracking changes over time, thus creating a historical record. This record can be used to identify the origin of bugs, compare older versions, and even undo changes to the codebase. Besides, it archives these changes, giving a cleaner look to the history log.
With the help of SCM, each developer works independently on a separate branch. Once the work is done, all branches are merged together.
Importance of Source Code Management
- Track Changes – Changes are tracked automatically, and developers leave commit messages to document them.
- Synchronization – Up-to-date code can be fetched from the repository.
- Backup and Restore – Files are saved at any time and can be restored to a previous state.
- Undoing – You can revert to any previous state, from the most recent commit to versions created long ago.
- Branching and Merging – Changes are made on a branch and, after being approved, can be merged with the master branch.
- Identifying Conflicts and Preventing Overwrites – Overwrites are prevented, and conflicts are identified. SCM notifies developers so they can review and resolve them.
Best Practices
- Frequent commits – Commits are snapshots that capture the current state of a project. Frequent commits give many opportunities to go back and undo work. Commits can be combined into a single commit to keep the log clear.
- Work from latest version – SCM enables keeping a local copy of the codebase. To avoid merge conflicts, pull or fetch the latest code before updating.
- Detailed Notes – It is a best practice to leave a descriptive commit message that clearly conveys the changes. Detailed log messages become essential as a project develops.
- Review – SCM provides a staging area to collect edits before committing, allowing you to review changes before creating a snapshot.
- Branches – This powerful mechanism allows team members to work on a separate line of development. When branch development is complete, it can be merged into the master branch.
- Workflow – SCMs offer various methods of contribution. It is important that the team establishes shared collaboration patterns. SCM workflows define processes for merging branches.
Practice
What are the key features of Source Code Management (SCM)?