Semi-Automated Builds
Semi-automated builds are a software development practice where the build process combines automated steps with manual interventions, typically for tasks requiring human judgment or oversight. This approach bridges fully manual builds, which are error-prone and time-consuming, and fully automated builds, which may lack flexibility for complex scenarios. It is commonly used in environments where certain build stages, such as code reviews, approval workflows, or environment-specific configurations, need human input before proceeding.
Developers should use semi-automated builds when they need to balance automation efficiency with control over critical build stages, such as in regulated industries (e.g., finance or healthcare) where manual approvals are required for compliance. It is also useful in projects with complex deployment scenarios that involve environment-specific tweaks or when integrating legacy systems that cannot be fully automated. This methodology reduces human error in repetitive tasks while retaining flexibility for decision-making.