What does the abbreviation 'CI' mean in software development?

The abbreviation 'CI' in software development refers to Continuous Integration. This practice involves frequently merging code changes from multiple contributors into a shared repository. Continuous Integration is fundamental in modern software development processes because it helps streamline and automate the testing of new code.

By integrating changes regularly, teams can detect issues early, improve collaboration among developers, and ensure that the codebase remains stable and functional. Automated tests are often run each time code is integrated, enabling teams to quickly identify and resolve integration problems before they escalate. This practice supports the agile methodologies commonly adopted in software projects, increasing both the quality and speed of development.

Other terms like Code Inspection, Customer Interaction, and Cloud Interface do not encapsulate the concept of CI in this context; while they are important aspects of software development, they serve different purposes and do not relate directly to the core principles of Continuous Integration.