In software development, there are two common practices: code reviews and pair programming. While both aim to improve code quality, they approach this goal very differently. This guide will explore the differences between each method and address the question: Do you still need code review if you pair program?
What is code review?
Code review is the practice of systematically examining code written by one or more developers to identify errors, improve quality, and ensure adherence to coding standards. This process can take various forms, including formal reviews, informal discussions, or using specialized tools.
Code review facets
Pros:
Error detection: Code reviews can catch bugs and issues that the original developer might miss. For instance, a reviewer may notice a logical error or an unoptimized algorithm.
Knowledge sharing: They also foster collaboration and knowledge transfer between team members. For example, a junior developer can learn from a senior developer’s feedback on their code.
Adherence to standards: Reviews help ensure that coding standards and best practices are followed, which can lead to more maintainable code.
Documentation: The feedback and discussions from code reviews can serve as documentation for future reference, making it easier to understand the rationale behind certain decisions.
Cons:
Time: Thorough code review can be time consuming, and can distract developers from executing on important feature work.
Requires discipline: Developers must be diligent about participating in reviews regularly, which can be challenging in busy development cycles.
What is pair programming?
Pair programming is a collaborative programming practice where two developers work together at one workstation. One developer, known as the "driver," writes the code, while the other, the "navigator," reviews each line and provides feedback in real time.
Pair programming facets
Pros:
Immediate feedback: Since both developers work together, feedback is instantaneous, allowing for quick iterations and corrections.
Enhanced collaboration: Pair programming encourages communication and collaboration, which can lead to innovative solutions. For example, two developers may brainstorm different approaches to a problem together.
Skill sharing: It allows for the exchange of knowledge between developers, especially when a more experienced developer pairs with a junior one, fostering mentorship.
Higher quality code: The collaborative nature of pair programming can lead to cleaner, more efficient code, as both developers actively engage in the problem-solving process.
Cons:
Fatigue: Continuous pairing can lead to burnout, especially in high-pressure environments. Developers may find it mentally taxing to maintain focus while pairing for extended periods.
Overhead: Pair programming can be less efficient in terms of time compared to solo programming for certain tasks, particularly if the drivers are not well-matched in skill or experience.
Personality clashes: If the pair doesn't communicate well or have conflicting working styles, it can lead to frustration and decreased productivity.
Do you need code review if you pair program?
The question arises: if you pair program, is additional code review necessary? In short, yes. While pair programming does enhance code quality through real-time collaboration, it does not fully replace the need for code reviews for several reasons:
Documentation: Code reviews provide a more formal record of discussions and decisions that can be referenced later. This is particularly helpful for new team members or when revisiting old code.
Broader perspective: Code reviews involve different reviewers who may provide insights and feedback that the pair might overlook. Multiple viewpoints can catch issues that one pair might not identify.
Encouraging team standards: Regular code reviews help enforce coding standards across the team, ensuring that all code meets a uniform level of quality.
Reducing dependency: Relying solely on pair programming can create knowledge silos. If only specific pairs of developers are familiar with certain parts of the code, it can lead to issues when those developers are unavailable.
Using tools to enhance code review and pair programming
Integrating tools can streamline both code review and pair programming processes. For instance, using platforms like Graphite can help manage code reviews more efficiently. For example, Graphite's pull request inbox helps you stay on top of your team's pull requests from one dashboard. You can see reviews, CI status, stack info, and everything else you need to know about your PRs in a centralized location for code review discussions, which makes it easier to track feedback and approvals.
Summary
Both code review and pair programming have their advantages and drawbacks. While pair programming can enhance collaboration and immediate feedback, it does not eliminate the need for formal code reviews. Implementing both practices can lead to a more robust development process and ensure high-quality code while promoting a collaborative culture. By leveraging tools like Graphite's PR Inbox, teams can effectively manage their review processes, so that all contributions are adequately vetted and improve overall code quality.