About this task
Batch files or scripts are great ways to automate the update and build process.
The advantages of automation include:
- Your build process will be reproducible because it will be done the same way every time.
- Your build will be less error-prone because you will not have to remember all the details every time you build.
- You can schedule the process to run at times when you are not around or when the system is not being used heavily, such as at night.
- Others can take over the build process when you are away.
- You can write a batch file or script program to check the update and build logs automatically, and to notify you of words or patterns that indicate failure or possible problems. (Even if you automate this, you should still skim the logs.)
When you automate a build, be sure to log the output so you can diagnose any problems that occur.
Throughout this book, each operation is presented from the GUI and from the CLI. Use the commands in the CLI section to help build your batch files (Windows) or scripts (UNIX).
Note: When you automate builds, you will not be able to resolve conflicts before the build. If conflicts are found, you may need to run the build cycle (or parts of it) again.