26 Build Automation Software Every Developer Must Know
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12 Best Build Automation Software Shortlist
After a thorough evaluation, I've curated the 12 best build automation software tailored to address developer challenges.
- CloudBees CodeShip - Best for streamlined CI/CD pipelines
- Drone - Best for Docker-first CI/CD approach
- Buildkite - Best for balancing cloud and on-premises builds
- Travis CI - Best for native GitHub integration
- Hashicorp Terraform - Best for codifying infrastructure components
- CircleCI - Best for broad language support in CI/CD
- Postman - Best for focused API test automation
- AWS CodeBuild - Best for deep AWS integrations
- Jenkins - Best for extensive plugin ecosystem
- GitHub - Best for in-repository CI/CD actions
- Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform - Best for large-scale IT orchestration
- Google Cloud Build - Best for Google Cloud-native builds
Navigating build automation software can be overwhelming, especially for managing dependency for Android applications and open-source projects. This guide explains unit testing in Visual Studio and binary code transformation. It identifies tools that integrate with CI servers, aid in debugging, and provide actionable metrics. These tools simplify tasks like dependency management, metrics analysis, and open-source build processes, allowing more focus on project-relevant tasks.
What Is a Build Automation Software?
Build automation software serves as a specialized toolset for developers, streamlining the intricate process of compiling source code into executable programs. These tools ensure consistent and repeatable builds, reducing the manual tasks associated with building software.
Developers and software engineers, ranging from individuals to large enterprise teams, employ build automation software to save time, diminish errors, and ensure that the final output remains consistent across multiple environments. Beyond just compilation, this software often integrates with other tools to facilitate testing, deployment, and other steps in the software development lifecycle.
Overview of the 12 Best Build Automation Software
1. CloudBees CodeShip - Best for streamlined CI/CD pipelines
CloudBees CodeShip empowers developers with an intuitive platform to set up continuous integration and continuous delivery, reducing manual overhead and promoting code quality. With a strong emphasis on automating pipelines, CodeShip aligns perfectly with teams aiming for efficient CI/CD processes.
Why I Picked CloudBees CodeShip:
I chose CloudBees CodeShip after a meticulous comparison with other tools, finding its flexibility and straightforward setup quite unique. Its emphasis on streamlining CI/CD pipelines made it evident why it's ideal for those wanting a more integration and deployment process.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CodeShip provides parallel test pipelines, speeding up the testing phase by running multiple tests simultaneously. With Docker support, it ensures that applications run the same across all environments. As for integrations, CodeShip shines by effortlessly connecting with popular repositories like GitHub and Bitbucket, as well as deployment platforms such as Heroku, AWS, and Google Cloud.
Pricing:
From $49/user/month (min 3 seats) + $20 base fee per month.
Pros:
- Docker support ensures consistency across environments
- Parallel test pipelines expedite the testing process
- Robust integrations with leading repositories and deployment platforms
Cons:
- Might be overkill for small projects or individual developers
- Steeper learning curve for those unfamiliar with CI/CD
- Price may be prohibitive for startups or smaller teams
2. Drone - Best for Docker-first CI/CD approach
Drone is a robust continuous integration platform that has placed Docker at the core of its approach. By focusing on Docker-centric CI/CD processes, Drone ensures consistency in software builds and deployments across varied environments.
Why I Picked Drone:
When it came to selecting a CI/CD tool that emphasizes Docker, Drone immediately caught my attention. Its unique Docker-first philosophy made it stand out in my comparisons. This emphasis ensures that developers get a consistent environment, which is why Drone is best for those who prioritize a Docker-centric approach in CI/CD.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Drone’s architecture is built around containerized plugins, allowing customization and adaptability to various stages of the CI/CD pipeline. The tool’s secret management system ensures security by safeguarding sensitive data.
When considering integrations, Drone connects with several code hosting platforms such as GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket, making the CI/CD setup process more streamlined.
Pricing:
From $10/user/month (billed annually) + $20 base fee per month.
Pros:
- Strong emphasis on Docker-centric processes ensures consistency
- Containerized plugins offer great flexibility
- Secure secret management system
Cons:
- Requires Docker know-how, which might not be for everyone
- Annual billing might deter some potential users
- Customization might be a bit overwhelming for newbies
3. Buildkite - Best for balancing cloud and on-premises builds
Buildkite offers an impressive hybrid approach to continuous integration and delivery. By letting users integrate both cloud and on-premises environments, it ensures the flexibility of cloud scalability with the security of on-premises hardware.
Why I Picked Buildkite:
In my quest to find the right mix of cloud efficiency and on-premises security, Buildkite emerged as the front-runner. I chose it because of its unique positioning, different from most tools that lean either entirely towards the cloud or on-premises. Buildkite's ability to bridge this gap perfectly resonates with its title as "best for balancing cloud and on-premises builds".
Standout Features & Integrations:
Buildkite's agent-based model allows it to run builds on any infrastructure, be it cloud, on-premises, or even both. Its parallel job execution speeds up builds, making it a force to reckon with in the CI/CD landscape. For integrations, Buildkite supports an extensive list including but not limited to GitHub, Bitbucket, and GitLab, and also offers RESTful API for custom integrations.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (billed annually) + $30 base fee per month.
Pros:
- Versatile hybrid CI/CD model supporting both cloud and on-premises
- Parallel job execution ensures faster build times
- Extensive integration support with leading platforms
Cons:
- Might be overkill for teams exclusively using either cloud or on-premises
- Agent-based model requires understanding and setup
- Annual billing may not appeal to all businesses
4. Travis CI - Best for native GitHub integration
Travis CI offers robust continuous integration and deployment services primarily tailored for projects hosted on GitHub. Its tight-knit integration with GitHub makes it an obvious choice for developers seeking CI/CD within the GitHub ecosystem.
Why I Picked Travis CI:
When determining a CI/CD tool deeply integrated with GitHub, Travis CI consistently topped the list. I selected it not just because of its popularity, but due to its native GitHub feel, which most developers praise. This made me conclude that it truly stands as the "best for native GitHub integration".
Standout Features & Integrations:
Travis CI is renowned for its simplistic configuration using travis.yml files, facilitating easy CI setup for projects. Auto deployment, matrix builds, and container-based builds are among its strongest features. In terms of integrations, while GitHub remains its primary integration, Travis CI also interfaces effectively with platforms like Docker, Heroku, and AWS.
Pricing:
From $69/user/month (billed annually).
Pros:
- Native integration with GitHub streamlines CI/CD for GitHub repositories
- Simplistic configuration process
- Offers container-based build for speed and efficiency
Cons:
- Might not be the first choice for non-GitHub repositories
- Limited flexibility compared to some other CI/CD tools
- Higher pricing point for small teams
5. HashiCorp Terraform - Best for codifying infrastructure components
HashiCorp Terraform stands as a widely adopted Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tool that enables users to define and provision data center resources using declarative configuration files. By turning infrastructure components into code, Terraform provides a systematic and repeatable way to create and manage cloud resources.
Why I Picked HashiCorp Terraform:
Choosing the most efficient tool to codify infrastructure, my inclination leaned toward HashiCorp Terraform due to its broad adoption and extensive capabilities. In the landscape of IaC, it stood out because of its provider-based model, which makes it versatile across various platforms.
Given its prowess in turning infrastructure components into readable code, it undoubtedly fits the title of "best for codifying infrastructure components".
Standout Features & Integrations:
Terraform's strength lies in its plan & application mechanism, which allows users to preview changes before execution. Its modular approach to infrastructure means components can be reused across projects, promoting consistency.
Integration-wise, Terraform boasts an extensive list of providers, making it compatible with numerous cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and even on-premises solutions.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request.
Pros:
- Provides a preview of infrastructure changes before applying them
- Extensive range of integrations with cloud platforms
- Modular infrastructure components promote reusability and consistency
Cons:
- Initial learning curve can be steep for beginners
- Managing the state, especially in larger teams, requires additional setup and care
- Complex configurations might demand external modules or scripting
6. CircleCI - Best for broad language support in CI/CD
CircleCI stands as one of the premier Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) platforms, facilitating software development by automatically building, testing, and deploying code. What sets it apart, particularly, is its vast support for numerous programming languages, ensuring diverse projects find a comfortable home.
Why I Picked CircleCI:
In the process of selecting a CI/CD tool, I was swayed toward CircleCI because of its versatile language support. While many tools offer CI/CD capabilities, CircleCI stands out with its commitment to accommodating a myriad of languages, from established ones like Python and Java to emerging languages.
I determined that for teams with diverse tech stacks, CircleCI would be the optimal choice, making it "best for broad language support in CI/CD".
Standout Features & Integrations:
CircleCI offers Docker layer caching, which speeds up the build process by reusing unchanged layers from previous builds. Additionally, it boasts parallelism, which allows tasks to run simultaneously, drastically reducing build times. As for integrations, CircleCI easily ties into popular platforms like GitHub and Bitbucket, and its vast marketplace offers a myriad of orbs (packaged configurations) that can be used to improve the CI/CD process.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (billed annually).
Pros:
- Extensive language support caters to diverse tech stacks
- Docker layer caching and parallelism lead to efficient build processes
- Robust marketplace with orbs enables easy customization
Cons:
- Configuration can get complex for intricate workflows
- Initial setup may be time-consuming for newcomers
- Occasional build delays during peak times
7. Postman - Best for focused API test automation
Postman has solidified its position as a go-to platform for API development and testing. Its primary goal is to empower developers and testers to design, mock, document, and test APIs with ease. Given its prowess in API test automation, it is a standout choice for teams that prioritize this aspect.
Why I Picked Postman:
I chose Postman after comparing various tools that offer API-related services. The deciding factors were its user-friendly interface, comprehensive feature set, and community-driven templates and collections. In judging its capabilities, it became clear that Postman's dedication to streamlining API test automation was unparalleled, justifying its title as "best for focused API test automation".
Standout Features & Integrations:
Postman offers an environment feature, allowing testers to switch between different stages of development without modifying API endpoints. Its built-in runner enables automated tests, making regression testing hassle-free. Integration-wise, Postman connects well with CI/CD tools like Jenkins, ensuring automated testing can be part of a continuous integration workflow.
Pricing:
From $12/user/month (billed annually).
Pros:
- Comprehensive toolset dedicated to API lifecycle management
- Built-in runner simplifies the automation of test cases
- Expansive collection of templates and collections driven by a large community
Cons:
- Advanced features may pose a learning curve for beginners
- Larger collections can occasionally slow down the application
- Limited collaboration features in the free plan
8. AWS CodeBuild - Best for deep AWS integrations
AWS CodeBuild is a fully managed continuous integration service that compiles source code, runs tests, and produces software packages ready for deployment. As a key player in the AWS suite of developer tools, CodeBuild boasts an impressive level of integration with the broader AWS ecosystem, making it a prime choice for those deeply invested in AWS.
Why I Picked AWS CodeBuild:
I chose AWS CodeBuild after assessing and comparing a range of CI tools. What truly stood out was its compatibility with other AWS services. In terms of integration, it is unparalleled, and this inherent synergy with the AWS ecosystem was the primary reason behind my judgment.
Given the tool's intrinsic ties to AWS, it's apparent why it earned the title "best for deep AWS integrations".
Standout Features & Integrations:
CodeBuild supports parallel builds and phased builds, offering flexibility and speed to developers. Its container-based approach ensures a consistent and reproducible build environment.
Integration-wise, it pairs exceptionally well with AWS services like AWS Lambda, Amazon EC2, and AWS CodePipeline, thus simplifying the CI/CD workflow within the AWS infrastructure.
Pricing:
From $0.005/build-minute.
Pros:
- Deep integration with other AWS services improves workflow
- Flexible pricing model based on build minutes used
- Container-based builds ensure consistency
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for those unfamiliar with AWS
- Pricing can become complex with multiple concurrent builds
- Limited out-of-the-box integrations with non-AWS tools
9. Jenkins - Best for extensive plugin ecosystem
Jenkins is an open-source automation server that facilitates continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD). Renowned for its flexibility and extensibility, Jenkins boasts a rich plugin ecosystem, making it highly adaptable to diverse software development environments and workflows.
Why I Picked Jenkins:
I selected Jenkins for this list after closely examining a variety of automation tools. Its sheer versatility, owed to an expansive range of plugins, sets it apart. This extensive plugin ecosystem, which allows customization for almost any CI/CD scenario, was instrumental in my decision.
It's this unparalleled adaptability that earns Jenkins the label "best for extensive plugin ecosystem".
Standout Features & Integrations:
Jenkins provides a wide array of features including distributed builds, where workload is distributed across multiple machines. Additionally, Jenkins pipelines offer a set of extensible tools for modeling simple-to-complex delivery pipelines "as code".
On the integration front, Jenkins supports a plethora of tools across the software development lifecycle, from source control management tools like Git and SVN to deployment platforms like Docker.
Pricing:
Jenkins is open-source and free to use.
Pros:
- Vast plugin ecosystem enables high adaptability
- Active community ensures constant updates and support
- Open-source nature ensures no licensing costs
Cons:
- Initial setup can be complex for beginners
- The interface might appear dated compared to newer CI/CD tools
- Being self-hosted requires maintenance and updates
10. GitHub - Best for in-repository CI/CD actions
GitHub is a platform primarily known for hosting and version control of code repositories. However, with the introduction of GitHub Actions, it has also positioned itself as a capable platform for automating, customizing, and executing software development workflows right within the repository.
Why I Picked GitHub:
After evaluating various platforms, I chose GitHub because of its integrated approach to code hosting and automation. GitHub Actions, which allows for CI/CD directly within the repository, is a distinct feature that sets GitHub apart from many other platforms.
This integration of CI/CD processes within the repository is why I regard GitHub as "best for in-repository CI/CD actions".
Standout Features & Integrations:
GitHub Actions empowers developers to automate workflows directly from their GitHub repository, from simple tasks to complex CI/CD pipelines. Coupled with the Matrix Build feature, it allows for running tests on multiple versions and configurations. As for integrations, GitHub Marketplace is home to thousands of actions, ensuring GitHub integrates effectively with most tools and services in the development ecosystem.
Pricing:
From $4/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Integrated CI/CD without the need for third-party solutions
- Matrix Build provides a flexible testing environment
- A vast marketplace offering numerous actions and integrations
Cons:
- Might have limitations for very complex CI/CD requirements
- Learning curve for those new to GitHub Actions
- Some advanced features are gated behind higher pricing tiers
11. Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform - Best for large-scale IT orchestration
Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform offers a comprehensive framework for automating and orchestrating IT operations across various systems, applications, and infrastructures. It simplifies complex tasks and improves the scalability and manageability of IT environments, making it aptly suited for organizations with extensive IT infrastructures.
Why I Picked Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform:
Having analyzed multiple automation platforms, I picked the Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform for its impressive capability to unify orchestration, configuration management, and application deployment under one roof. The platform's agentless architecture and its extensive collection of modules differentiate it from other solutions.
For enterprises dealing with vast and complex IT orchestration tasks, it emerges as the prime choice, cementing its status as "best for large-scale IT orchestration".
Standout Features & Integrations:
The platform's main strength lies in its simplicity; it employs YAML-based playbooks that enable users to define automation jobs clearly. Its agentless nature means there's no need for remote agents on managed systems.
The Automation Hub feature in the platform provides certified content collections, ensuring reliability and best practices in automation tasks. As for integrations, Ansible boasts a wide range of modules that support various cloud providers, databases, and networking devices, guaranteeing compatibility with most enterprise IT stacks.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Unified platform for various automation tasks
- Agentless architecture reduces overhead and complexity
- Extensive module library for broad integration support
Cons:
- Requires knowledge of YAML for playbook creation
- Advanced features may require additional Red Hat services
- Enterprise pricing might be a barrier for smaller organizations
12. Google Cloud Build - Best for Google Cloud-native builds
Google Cloud Build is a continuous integration and delivery platform that automates build processes, testing, and deployment within the Google Cloud ecosystem. With its robust integration with other Google Cloud services, it provides an optimal solution for developers looking for a streamlined build process within the Google Cloud environment.
Why I Picked Google Cloud Build:
In the process of evaluating CI/CD tools, I selected Google Cloud Build, particularly for its deep-rooted alignment with the Google Cloud ecosystem. What distinguishes it is its serverless approach, eliminating the need for infrastructure management. The direct integrations with other Google Cloud services make it an intuitive choice when the primary focus is on Google Cloud-native builds.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Google Cloud Build prides itself on its serverless architecture, ensuring developers need not be concerned about the underlying infrastructure. It has built-in vulnerability scanning, which identifies and informs of vulnerabilities in container images.
As for integrations, it natively ties in with popular Google Cloud services such as Cloud Storage, Cloud Pub/Sub, and Container Registry, facilitating a cohesive development cycle.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Deep integration with Google Cloud services
- Serverless architecture removes infrastructure concerns
- Built-in vulnerability scanning for improved security
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for those new to Google Cloud Platform
- Limited integrations outside the Google ecosystem
- Configuration flexibility might be a constraint for certain complex builds
Other Noteworthy Build Automation Software
Below is a list of additional build automation software that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. They are definitely worth checking out.
- Azure DevOps Server - Good for integrated DevOps in Microsoft environments
- Apache Maven - Good for Java project management and builds
- Azure Automation - Good for cloud-based IT automation on Azure
- Chef - Good for infrastructure as code and automation
- Ionic.IO - Good for cross-platform mobile app development
- GitLab CI/CD - Good for comprehensive Git-based CI/CD workflows
- TeamCity - Good for extensible CI with JetBrains integration
- Bamboo - Good for linking CI/CD with Atlassian products
- GoCD - Good for continuous delivery with visual pipelines
- Concourse CI - Good for container-centric CI processes
- Semaphore - Good for high-speed CI/CD execution
- BuildMaster - Good for .NET application deployment
- AppVeyor - Good for CI/CD tailored to Windows projects
- Spinnaker - Good for multi-cloud deployment strategies
Selection Criteria for Choosing Build Automation Software
When diving into the realm of CI/CD software, the choices can be overwhelming. Over the years, I've evaluated dozens of CI/CD tools. In this case, I was really looking for tools that not only streamline the software development process but also improve team collaboration and maintain code quality. Let's delve deeper into the specifics of what I believe are crucial criteria for picking the right CI/CD solution for your needs.
Core Functionality
- Continuous Integration: The tool should enable automatic merging and testing of code changes.
- Continuous Deployment: Automatic deployment of code to production after passing tests.
- Version Control Integration: Easy integration with popular version control systems like Git, SVN, or Mercurial.
- Build Automation: Automatically compile and package the code for deployment.
- Rollbacks: Ability to revert to previous versions if an issue arises post-deployment.
Key Features
- Pipeline Visualization: A visual representation of the CI/CD pipeline, showing each stage of the process, from code commit to production deployment.
- Parallel Execution: Allows simultaneous processing of tasks, speeding up the build and deploy process.
- Container Support: Integration with container platforms like Docker or Kubernetes, is vital for microservices architecture.
- Built-in Testing Tools: Inbuilt tools or integrations that facilitate automated testing, be it unit, integration, or user acceptance tests.
- Feedback Mechanism: Instant notifications on build or deploy failures, allowing developers to act quickly.
Usability
- Intuitive Dashboard: A centralized dashboard that provides a bird's-eye view of all ongoing and completed processes, including builds, deployments, and tests.
- Configuration Interface: Given the complex nature of CI/CD setups, a straightforward interface for pipeline configuration, preferably with templated workflows, is essential.
- Role-based Access: Clear role-based access controls ensure that only authorized personnel can make changes, deploy, or access sensitive configurations.
- Documentation & Training: A comprehensive learning library, documentation, or training program for onboarding users, ensuring everyone gets up to speed with the tool's intricacies.
- Responsive Support: Quick and helpful customer support that can aid in troubleshooting and guide through advanced configurations when necessary.
Most Common Questions Regarding Build Automation Software
What are the benefits of using build automation software?
Using build automation software offers numerous advantages to streamline the development process and ensure code quality:
- Efficiency: Automated builds reduce manual intervention, making the process faster and more consistent.
- Consistency: Every build runs in the exact same manner, ensuring that the output is consistent, irrespective of where the build is run.
- Error Reduction: By automating repetitive tasks, there's a lower chance of human error creeping into the build process.
- Immediate Feedback: Developers receive immediate feedback if there's an issue with their code, making it quicker and easier to rectify.
- History & Documentation: All builds are logged, providing a clear history of changes and making it easier to roll back or review changes.
How much do these build automation tools typically cost?
The cost of building automation tools can vary widely depending on their features, integrations, and target audience. Some tools cater to individual developers or small teams, while others are designed for large enterprises.
What are the common pricing models for building automation software?
Most build automation tools have one of the following pricing models:
- Subscription-based: Monthly or yearly fees based on the number of users, build agents, or repositories.
- Pay-as-you-go: Pricing is based on the number of build minutes or resources consumed.
- One-time purchase: A single upfront cost for a perpetual license, though updates might be charged separately.
- Freemium: A basic version is available for free, with advanced features or more resources available in paid tiers.
What's the typical range of pricing for these tools?
Build automation tools can range from being completely free for basic versions to several thousand dollars per month for enterprise-level solutions with unlimited resources and premium support.
Which software is considered the cheapest?
While it depends on the specific features and usage levels, tools like GoCD and Jenkins can be set up and used for free, though they might require investments in terms of setup time and infrastructure.
Which software is the most expensive?
Enterprise-level solutions like Azure DevOps Server or Bamboo, when used at scale with multiple build agents and extensive resources, can be on the pricier side.
Are there any free options available?
Yes, there are several build automation tools that offer free versions. Jenkins, GoCD, and GitLab CI/CD have free versions available. However, it's essential to note that while the software might be free, there could be costs associated with infrastructure, especially if self-hosted.
Why is there such a wide range in pricing among these tools?
The pricing range is broad due to the diverse needs they cater to. Some tools are designed for individual developers or small projects, requiring minimal resources. In contrast, others cater to large enterprises with extensive build pipelines, integrations, support needs, and resource requirements. The complexity, scalability, and feature set of the tool often dictate its price.
Other Software Development Platform Reviews
- CI/CD Tools
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- Software Development Tracking Tools
- Web Development Tools
- Cloud Application Development Platforms
Summary
Explore build automation software options for efficient, consistent, and error-free builds in modern development teams. Understand core functionalities, key features, and usability aspects to make informed decisions that match unique requirements.
Key Takeaways:
- Define Your Needs: Before diving into the myriad of options, clarify the core functionalities and features essential for your project. This clarity will guide your selection and help you avoid getting swayed by flashy features that you might not need.
- Pricing Models Matter: Build automation tools that come with various pricing models. Whether it's subscription-based, pay-as-you-go, or a one-time purchase, understanding these models will ensure you get the best value for your investment.
- Usability is Crucial: Beyond just features, the design, interface, onboarding process, and customer support can greatly influence the effectiveness of the tool. Consider the user experience aspects that are particularly important for your team or project.
What Do You Think?
While I've endeavored to provide a comprehensive guide on the best build automation software available, the tech landscape is vast and ever-evolving. If you've come across a tool that deserves a mention or have personal experiences with one that has proven invaluable to your projects, I'd love to hear from you. Your expertise and feedback are integral to the community's growth and knowledge-sharing.