What are the benefits and drawbacks of centralized vs. distributed version control systems?

1 Centralized VCS

A centralized VCS (CVCS) is a system where all the files and their history are stored on a single server. The users can access the files from the server, but they do not have a local copy of the history. To make changes, they have to check out the files from the server, work on them, and then check them back in. Some examples of CVCS are Subversion, CVS, and Perforce.

The main benefit of CVCS is that it is simple and easy to use. It has a clear structure and hierarchy of files and versions, and it allows the administrator to control the access and permissions of the users. It also reduces the storage and bandwidth requirements for the users, since they do not have to download the entire history of the files.

The main drawback of CVCS is that it depends on the availability and reliability of the server. If the server goes down, the users cannot access or update the files, which can cause delays and disruptions in the workflow. It also poses a risk of data loss or corruption, if the server is hacked or damaged. Moreover, CVCS can limit the collaboration and flexibility of the users, since they have to work on the same version of the files and follow the same rules and conventions.

2 Distributed VCS

A distributed VCS (DVCS) is a system where each user has a complete copy of the files and their history on their local machine. The users can work on the files offline, and then sync and share their changes with other users through a network or a central repository. Some examples of DVCS are Git, Mercurial, and Bazaar.

The main benefit of DVCS is that it is fast and robust. It allows the users to work independently and asynchronously, without relying on a central server. It also enables the users to create and switch between different branches and versions of the files, and to merge and resolve conflicts easily. It also enhances the security and backup of the data, since each user has a full copy of the history.

The main drawback of DVCS is that it can be complex and confusing. It has a steep learning curve and requires more technical skills and knowledge to use. It also creates more storage and bandwidth demands for the users, since they have to download and upload the entire history of the files. Furthermore, DVCS can cause duplication and inconsistency of the files, if the users do not communicate and coordinate their changes effectively.

3 Choosing the best VCS

Finding the right version control system (VCS) for document management is not an easy decision to make. It depends on several factors, such as the size and scope of your project, the number and location of your team members, the frequency and complexity of your changes, the security and reliability of your network, and your personal preferences and habits. When considering which type to use, you should consider the pros and cons of each type to evaluate how they fit your needs and goals. Generally speaking, if you have a small or simple project with few or co-located team members who work on the same or similar files, then a centralized version control system (CVCS) is likely best. On the other hand, if you have a large or complex project with many or distributed team members who work on different or divergent files, then a decentralized version control system (DVCS) may be more suitable as it provides flexible collaboration and innovation of changes.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?