Gradle is a build automation tool for multi-language software development. It controls the development process in the tasks of compilation and packaging to testing, deployment, and publishing. Supported languages include Java (as well as Kotlin, Groovy, Scala), C/ C++, and

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. It also collects statistical data about the usage of software libraries around the globe. Gradle builds on the concepts of Apache Ant and

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, and introduces a Groovy- and Kotlin-based domain-specific language contrasted with the

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-based project configuration used by Maven. Gradle uses a

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to determine the order in which tasks can be run, through providing dependency management. It runs on the Java Virtual Machine. Gradle was designed for multi-project builds, which can grow to be large. It operates based on a series of build tasks that can run serially or in parallel. Incremental builds are supported by determining the parts of the build tree that are already up to date; any task dependent only on those parts does not need to be re-executed. It also supports caching of build components, potentially across a shared network using the Gradle Build Cache. It produces web-based build visualization called Gradle Build Scans. The software is extensible for new features and programming languages with a plugin subsystem. Gradle is distributed as

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under the Apache License 2.0, and was first released in 2008.

History

Origin of the name

Founder and CEO Hans Dockter has said that he originally wanted to name the project "Cradle". However, to make the name unique and less "diminutive" he instead chose "Gradle", taking the "G" from the use of Groovy.

Major versions

Distribution

Gradle is available as a separate download, but can also be found bundled in products such as

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References

External links

*
Official Gradle Enterprise website
* {{youtube, XXoIzzcJr80, Breaking Open: Gradle - An interview about Gradle and Gradleware, its history, motivation and challenges With Gradle founder Hans Dockter and Aleksandar Gargenta Compiling tools Java development tools Build automation Cross-platform software Software using the Apache license 2007 software