Ad Hoc Deployment
Ad hoc deployment is an informal, manual approach to deploying software or updates, typically performed on-demand without a standardized process or automation. It involves deploying code directly to environments like development, testing, or production using one-off commands or scripts, often bypassing formal release pipelines. This method is common in small teams, rapid prototyping, or emergency fixes where speed and flexibility are prioritized over consistency and reliability.
Developers should use ad hoc deployment for quick testing, debugging, or deploying minor changes in non-critical environments, such as during early development phases or for hotfixes in production emergencies. It's suitable when formal deployment processes are too slow or cumbersome, but it should be avoided for regular releases due to risks like configuration drift, lack of audit trails, and increased error potential. This approach is often seen in startups or agile projects where rapid iteration is key.