BRANCHING MODELS
Branching models, also known as version control or source control, are a critical tool for managing development workflow and release management for Salesforce applications. As Salesforce developers become increasingly reliant on the unique capabilities of the platform, branching models help keep control of the different code streams that are produced over the life of the application. At the most basic level, a branching model is a series of different “branches” or code streams that start from a common point in a shared source repository. Depending on the specific development process, one branch might target a set of fixes or enhancements, while another branch might contain a production version tagged for release. Branches allow developers to make changes to the code without disturbing the integrity of the live application. The most common branching model for Salesforce applications is the Gitflow Model. It collects the source code from each branch into a single repository, making it easier to monitor all developers’ workflows. Each branch can then be released to the production environment, in either one update or multiple smaller updates, depending on the version control settings. All changes and related problems can be tracked in the repository to maintain full visibility into the development process. Beyond the version control and source repository tracking, a properly designed branch model can provide numerous other benefits. It can be used to schedule releases and segment teams into development silos, creating better team efficiency and communication. A good branching model also allows developers to push numerous development projects at once, as different branches target separate releases. It also makes setting up integration testing environments simpler and more effective. For enterprise customers, branching models also allow for better Salesforce data backup and recovery. In case of an unexpected issue, developers can return to a known good branch, roll back changes, and then try again. This keeps data safe, regardless of the development process, and keeps the entire operational infrastructure secure. Whether just starting out with Salesforce release management or deep into a multi-year development project, a proper branching model is essential for managing development, testing, and releases. For enterprise users, branch models provide an added layer of security, data backup and recovery, and control that allows them to make the most of the Salesforce platform. From a RobustTechHouse perspective, We make sure that clients with custom developed solutions have a branch model ready, no matter the scope and complexity of the project, such that, organizations can avail the power of Salesforce, ensuring efficiency in the code development process, and mitigate the risks around Salesforce data backup and recovery.
Topics:
