Merge Requests
Merge Requests (often called Pull Requests in some platforms) are a collaborative workflow feature in version control systems, primarily used in Git-based platforms like GitLab, GitHub, and Bitbucket. They allow developers to propose changes to a codebase, which are then reviewed, discussed, and tested by team members before being merged into the main branch. This process facilitates code quality, knowledge sharing, and team coordination in software development projects.
Developers should use Merge Requests to implement a structured code review process, ensuring that changes are vetted for bugs, adherence to standards, and overall quality before integration. They are essential in team environments to prevent breaking changes, maintain code consistency, and document the evolution of a project, particularly in agile or DevOps workflows where continuous integration and deployment are prioritized.