What is a typical step in the DevOps lifecycle?

Establishing a continuous integration process is a crucial step in the DevOps lifecycle as it involves automating the integration of code changes from multiple contributors into a shared repository. This practice allows for frequent updates, enabling teams to identify integration issues early and ensuring that software can be delivered swiftly and reliably. Continuous integration enables automated testing and validation of new code, which significantly reduces the risk of defects and accelerates the delivery pace.

By implementing a continuous integration process, teams can maintain high-quality software and enhance collaboration among developers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the DevOps framework. This foundational step supports the larger objectives of DevOps, which are to enhance efficiency and responsiveness to changes in requirements or technology.