What is a Build Artifact?
A build artifact is a file or set of files that are generated as a result of the build process in software development. These artifacts are essential components within the Continuous Integration (CI) and Continuous Deployment (CD) pipelines, facilitating the transition from code to a deployable product.
In the context of DevOps, build artifacts typically include compiled code, libraries, configuration files, and documentation. They serve as the output of the build automation process, ensuring that the software is packaged correctly and ready for deployment.
Build artifacts enable teams to maintain consistency and traceability, allowing them to recreate specific build versions based on the exact inputs and environment used during development. They also support the testing process, facilitating quality assurance by providing a stable version of the software to validate against.
Commonly stored in artifact repositories, these files can be versioned and shared across teams, reducing integration problems and enhancing collaboration. Effective management of build artifacts is crucial for successful implementation of CI/CD practices in any organization.