Description: A build artifact is a file or collection of files generated as a result of the build process in software development. These artifacts can include binaries, libraries, configuration files, documentation, and other elements necessary to run or deploy an application. In the context of a continuous integration pipeline, build artifacts are crucial as they represent the tangible output of the compilation and testing stages. Proper management of these artifacts allows development teams to maintain efficient version control and facilitate collaboration across different development, testing, and production environments. Additionally, artifacts can be stored in specific repositories, enabling their reuse in future builds and ensuring that the correct versions are used at each stage of the software development lifecycle. Automating the build process and artifact generation is essential for achieving an agile and efficient workflow, minimizing errors, and optimizing the delivery time of new features or bug fixes.
