Mainline

Synopsis::A codeline to which all other codelines return.

Intent
Prevents cascading of code lines and returns all change and release to a common base code from which new development can begin.

Motivation
The potential for multiple codelines to cascade out of control invites the use of a common base to which all code returns.

Also known as
also known as::Main Trunk, also known as::Main Anchor Line, also known as::Home Line, also known as::Ground Line

Structure
All branches taken from the main codeline are ultimately returned to the main codeline.

Consequences

 * Reduces merging and synchronisation effort that would otherwise be required for cascaded branches.

Related patterns
The following patterns are variants of the pattern.
 * variant pattern::LAG Development Line
 * variant pattern::Multiple Mainlines
 * variant pattern::Stable Receiving Line

The following patterns are related to the pattern.
 * related pattern::Codeline Policy
 * related pattern::Codeline Owner
 * related pattern::Parallel Maintenance and Development Lines
 * related pattern::Overlapping Release Lines
 * related pattern::Staged Integration Lines