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Version Control Systems for Tracking Code Changes

Version control can be defined as a system that tracks changes within source code/digital asset files over time. By using a version control system and processes, a development team can collaborate efficiently, create a code history, and revert back to previous versions of the source code when it is necessary. Examples of systems include Git and Subversion, where snapshots of code updates are periodically saved and allow developers to work concurrently on code review processes based on branching without having to worry about overwriting another developer's code changes. 

Version control systems provide the foundation for complex software projects to be developed and to manage complexity using traceability, accountability, and organised workflows. There are many functions within version control systems, including commit logs, diffs, merge, and branch, which allow the development team to understand what was changed, who made the change, and why it was changed. Version control systems support managed releases, CI/CD pipelines, and code review processes in large enterprises and provide an auditable history to support governance and compliance. Without a version control system, modern software development would be chaotic, error-prone, and near impossible to scale.