In the context of software development, what is a baseline?

A baseline in software development serves as a crucial reference point that marks the transitions between different phases of development. It represents an agreed-upon version of the software at a specific moment in time, which can be used for comparison and evaluation. Establishing a baseline allows teams to track progress, measure performance, and identify changes between different iterations or versions of the software.

By having defined baselines, development teams can ensure that any subsequent work is built upon a stable foundation. This practice helps maintain the integrity of the software development process and facilitates better communication among team members and stakeholders. Overall, baselines are pivotal for project management and version control, ensuring that everyone involved has a clear understanding of what has been completed and what is yet to be done.