Why is frequent integration considered beneficial in continuous integration?

Frequent integration is considered beneficial in continuous integration primarily because it reduces the likelihood of conflicts between different code changes. By integrating code changes into a shared repository on a regular basis, developers can identify and address conflicts early on, rather than accumulating many changes that could lead to significant integration issues later.

When code is integrated frequently, developers can incorporate feedback from automated tests and peer reviews immediately, which facilitates smoother collaboration and ensures that all team members are working with the latest version of the code. This approach not only enhances communication but also minimizes the risk of bugs that can arise when developers work in isolation for extended periods.

In contrast, integrating larger volumes of code at once can create more significant challenges, such as complex merge conflicts. Additionally, continuous integration aims to simplify the integration process rather than increase project complexity, and while it may sometimes be less time-consuming than traditional methods, that is not its primary advantage. The core benefit lies in maintaining consistency and reducing integration issues through frequent and iterative code updates.