Modern code review has evolved significantly from the traditional methods of peer review that primarily relied on manual examination of code to a more structured, tool-based approach. This evolution aligns with the increasing complexity of software development and the need for more efficient and scalable solutions.
What is modern code review?
Modern code review refers to the process of using automated tools and predefined procedures to examine new or changed code by developers other than the author. The goal is to identify bugs, improve code quality, and ensure the code adheres to the project's coding standards and guidelines.
Tool-based code review
Tool-based code review is a cornerstone of modern code review. These systems integrate directly with version control systems like GitHub, providing a seamless workflow for developers. They offer features such as automated linting, code metrics, and integration with continuous integration pipelines. This automation helps streamline the code review process, reduces manual labor, and accelerates the development cycle.
Example of tool-based code review: Google's approach
Google, known for its rigorous engineering practices, has a sophisticated code review process that heavily relies on tools. They use an internal tool called "Critique" which allows developers to perform reviews within a single interface that tracks discussions, decisions, and revisions. This tool not only facilitates thorough reviews but also integrates with other Google tools to ensure consistency and quality across projects.
Graphite's PR inbox: Streamlining reviews
Graphite's PR inbox enhances the modern code review process by organizing pull requests (PRs) in a way similar to an email client. It provides the following features:
- Organization by sections: Sections like 'Needs your review', 'Approved', and 'Waiting for review' help developers prioritize their tasks.
- Customization options: Users can create new sections with custom filters or edit existing ones, allowing for a tailored review process that fits team needs.
- Integration and search capabilities: The inbox works with GitHub, allowing users to search across PRs by title, description, or author. This capability ensures that nothing slips through the cracks.
- Collaboration tools: Team members can share section configurations, ensuring everyone is aligned and can view PRs in a way that matches their workflow.
How to use Graphite's PR inbox effectively
- Set up default repositories: Start by configuring your default repositories to appear in your PR inbox. You can choose up to three repositories on the Graphite free tier or up to 30 on the Team and Enterprise tiers.
- Customize sections: Tailor your inbox by creating sections that reflect your review priorities and workflows. You can rearrange these sections to fit your personal or team preferences.
- Utilize search features: Use the search functionality within the PR inbox to quickly find PRs, reducing the time spent navigating through multiple repositories.
- Collaborate and share: Make use of the sharing options to ensure your team members can adopt your filter settings, enhancing consistency across reviews.
In conclusion, modern code review has transformed from a manual, error-prone process to a streamlined, tool-driven workflow. Tools like Graphite's PR inbox play a pivotal role in this evolution, offering a structured, efficient way to handle code reviews that cater to modern development needs. By integrating these tools into your workflow, you can significantly enhance productivity and ensure higher code quality across your projects.