Database Migration
Database migration is the process of transferring data, schema, and configurations from one database system or version to another, often as part of software updates, system upgrades, or cloud migrations. It involves planning, executing, and validating the move to ensure data integrity, consistency, and minimal downtime. This concept is critical in modern development workflows, especially with agile methodologies and continuous deployment.
Developers should learn database migration to manage schema changes safely in production environments, enabling features like version control for databases and seamless deployments. It's essential when updating applications that require database modifications, migrating to new database technologies (e.g., from MySQL to PostgreSQL), or moving to cloud-based databases. Proper migration practices prevent data loss, reduce errors, and support team collaboration in evolving projects.