GitFlow and Release Branching

GitFlow is a branching model that traditionally uses branches such as main, develop, feature branches, release branches, and hotfix branches. It can work well for products with structured release cycles, but many modern teams prefer simpler trunk-based workflows.

The important lesson is not to follow a branching model mechanically. Choose the simplest workflow that fits deployment, release, and compliance requirements.

Key Takeaways
  • GitFlow is a workflow convention, not a Git feature.
  • Release-heavy products may benefit from dedicated release branches.
  • Simpler teams often benefit from trunk-based development.
Knowledge Check

Is GitFlow built into Git as a special Git mode?