The role of patch review in software evolution

Abstract

Patch review is the basic mechanism for validating the design and implementation of patches and maintaining consistency in some commercial and Free/Libre/Open Source Software (FLOSS) projects. We examine the inner-workings of the development process of the successful and mature Mozilla foundation and highlight how different parties involved affect and steer the process. Although reviewers are the primary actors in the patch review process, success in the process can only be achieved if the community supports reviewers adequately. Peer developers play the supporting role by offering insight and ideas that help create more quality patches. Moreover, they reduce the huge patch backlog reviewers have to clear by identifying and eliminating immature patches.