1D. Version Control

Establish an approach for "version control" for the data.

Why do we need "version control"?

• • • It is helpful to have "breakpoints" as you make different changes to the file.  If you need to "undo" some significant change you made, the easiest thing may be to revert to an earlier stage.

    • It is also important to be able to use a diff tool to compare the "before" and "after" when you make a significant change.  The changes we make are sweeping enough, with enough possible "edge cases", that it is crucial that we validate each one.  You want few enough changes between each version of the file that you could glance over most of the changes.

      • kdiff3 is a really helpful visual diff tool

      • Notepad++ has a Compare feature

      • There are many others out there; it doesn't matter, as long as you use something.

How can we do version control?

• • • Computer programmers use Git as a preferred way of doing robust version control.  Instructions for Using Git for Version Control are provided.

    • For those not comfortable with git, a simple "Make copies along the way" method is described.