What is CI/CD pipeline? Explained to product managers

Running a Car Assembly Plant: The CI/CD Pipeline

Imagine you own a car assembly plant. Building a car step-by-step can help explain how a CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) pipeline works in software development. Running a car assembly plant provides a clear analogy for the CI/CD pipeline in software development. Each stage, from preparing parts to delivering the final car, parallels the steps in developing and releasing software. Each step plays a crucial role in creating a high-quality product. Automating and refining these stages ensures the final product is delivered efficiently and reliably, whether it’s a car or a piece of software.

1. Starting Point: Preparing Parts (Writing Code)

Before assembling cars, you ensure all parts are ready. Similarly, in software, the process begins with writing code. Developers create various pieces needed for the final software. This stage is crucial for laying the foundation of the product.

2. Frame Assembly: Basic Build (Integration)

At the plant, the first station assembles the car's frame. This step is like the integration phase in CI/CD, where basic code components are put together. Continuous Integration tools help combine code from different developers, ensuring everything fits correctly, like aligning the car’s frame. This stage ensures that the product starts to take shape.

3. Engine Installation: Component Testing

Next, the engine is installed and checked for proper function. In software, this stage involves testing individual parts, known as unit tests. Each piece of code is tested to ensure it works properly, much like verifying the engine’s performance. This stage ensures that each component of the product functions as intended.

4. Painting: Adding Final Touches (Code Review)

Once the car is assembled, it goes to the paint shop for a polished look. In software, this step is similar to code review, where developers check the code for quality and consistency, ensuring it’s clean and maintainable. This stage enhances the product’s overall quality and presentation.

5. Quality Check: Comprehensive Testing

Your plant has rigorous quality checks to ensure each car meets high standards. In CI/CD, this stage involves thorough testing, including integration tests and automated tests. These tests ensure all parts of the software work well together, just as you ensure all parts of the car function harmoniously. This stage is vital for catching any issues and verifying the product’s reliability.

6. Final Assembly: Combining All Parts (Final Build)

At this stage, remaining parts are added, completing the car. In the CI/CD pipeline, this is where the software is compiled into a final build, integrating all components. This step ensures that every part of the software is in place and ready for final checks. This stage brings the product to its complete form, ready for final testing.

7. Test Drive: User Acceptance Testing (UAT)

Before delivering the car, it goes for a test drive to confirm its roadworthiness. In software development, this stage is called User Acceptance Testing (UAT), where real users test the software in a production-like environment. This final check ensures the software meets user needs and performs well. This stage provides real-world validation of the product.

8. Delivery: Releasing to Customers (Deployment)

Finally, the car is ready for delivery to the customer. In the CI/CD pipeline, this stage is deployment, where the software is released to users. Continuous Deployment tools automate this process, ensuring the latest version of the software is always available, just like delivering cars efficiently. This stage gets the product into the hands of users.