Why Your GitHub Pull Requests Are Taking Forever?

Waiting for pull requests to be reviewed can be a significant bottleneck in software development. These delays slow down progress, lead to merge conflicts, and impact team productivity. Let's explore why pull requests often take so long and how to optimize your GitHub pull request workflow and GitHub PR workflow for faster approvals and better code review.

Slow Pull Requests: Why? 10 Reasons Why Your Team Has Slow Pull Request Times

TL;DR: Check out the infographic below for a quick summary. Detailed explanations follow.

1. PRs Are Too Big

• Large PRs with hundreds or thousands of lines of code are daunting for reviewers.
  • Example: A PR that includes a complete overhaul of the authentication system, database schema changes, and frontend UI updates—all in one go.
• Why This Matters: Large PR sizes overwhelm reviewers during the code review process, leading to procrastination or superficial reviews. This slows down the pull request workflow and increases the risk of bugs slipping into production.

2. Larger PRs, More Risks

• Bigger PRs are harder to test and may introduce unexpected side effects.
  • Concrete Example: A developer submits a large PR updating the payment processing module, which unintentionally affects user profile management, introducing a critical bug that locks users out of their accounts.
• Impact: Increased risk of regressions in unrelated parts of the application, complicating the GitHub pull request review process.

3. Long-Running Pull Requests Slow Down Team Velocity

• Pull requests that take too long to get approved become stale.
• Codebases evolve rapidly, leading to merge conflicts and additional rework.
  • Impact on Teams: Developers spend extra time resolving conflicts or reworking code, slowing down the entire team's velocity. This delay in the GitHub approve pull request process and the overall GitHub PR workflow can derail sprint plans and release schedules.

4. Lack of Reviewer Availability

• Designated reviewers may be overloaded with other tasks or are unavailable.
  • Concrete Example: Senior developers responsible for reviews are swamped with their own development tasks and meetings.
• Why This Matters: Limited reviewer availability creates bottlenecks, delaying PR approvals. Features like GitHub suggest code change can help streamline feedback but are underutilized.

5. Inadequate Prioritization of Code Reviews

• Code reviews are not prioritized and fall behind other development tasks.
  • Example: Developers focus on new feature development and treat code reviews as a secondary task, leading to delays.
• Impact: Slower development processes and diminished benefits of peer review. Prioritizing code reviews is essential for an efficient pull request workflow.

6. Company Culture and Communication Barriers

• A lack of emphasis on collaboration or open communication hinders the PR review process.
  • Concrete Example: Developers work in silos, and reviewers might not feel a sense of urgency to review PRs from other teams.
• Why This Matters: Without effective communication and a collaborative culture, PRs can languish unnoticed.

7. Time Zone Differences in Distributed Teams

• Global teams face delays due to time zone differences.
  • Example: A developer in Europe submits a PR at the end of their day, but the reviewer in the US doesn't see it until their next working day.
• Impact: Added delays, especially when multiple review cycles are needed, slowing down the overall development process.

8. Complex Review Processes or Tools

• Cumbersome review processes or unfamiliar tools can slow down PR approvals.
  • Example: New team members struggle with a complicated code review automation tool with a steep learning curve.
• Why This Matters: Overly complex systems hinder productivity; simple and user-friendly tools facilitate faster reviews.

9. Lack of Clear Code Ownership

• Unclear responsibilities for reviewing PRs can cause them to be overlooked.
  • Example: A PR is submitted without explicitly assigned reviewers; team members assume someone else will handle it.
• Impact: PRs remain unreviewed for extended periods, delaying feature releases and bug fixes.

10. Fear of Criticism or Conflict

• Developers may hesitate to provide honest feedback due to fear of causing conflict.
  • Example: A reviewer notices a significant issue but delays pointing it out to avoid upsetting the author.
• Why This Matters: Hesitation to provide feedback impedes the review process and affects code quality. Knowing how to resolve requested changes on GitHub can alleviate this hesitation.

How to Improve Pull Request Workflows for a Faster Development Process

1. Write Smaller Pull Requests

Breaking down your work into smaller, manageable PRs can significantly speed up the review process.

• Strategies:

  • Feature Branches: Create a separate branch for each feature or bug fix. For guidance, check out create branch on GitHub.
  • Atomic Commits: Focus each PR on a single concern. If you're updating the UI, avoid mixing in database changes.
  • Use GitHub Draft PRs: Consider using GitHub Draft PR to get early feedback without formally requesting a review.

• Benefits:

  • Smaller PRs are less intimidating and easier to review thoroughly.
  • Accelerates the GitHub approve pull request process.
  • Reduces the chance of merge conflicts.

• Concrete Example:

  • Submit separate PRs for different tasks. For example, create one PR for adding a new feature and another for refactoring existing code.

2. Provide Contextual Details

A well-documented PR can make a world of difference.

• Tips:

  • Detailed Descriptions: Clearly explain what the PR does, why it's necessary, and any potential impacts.
  • Pull Request Template: Creating a pull request template can standardize and streamline the process. Learn how to set one up here: GitHub Pull Request Template.
  • Screenshots or GIFs: For UI changes, visuals can help reviewers understand the changes quickly.
  • Reference Issues: Link to any relevant issues or requirements.

• Concrete Example:

  • When updating a login form, include before-and-after screenshots and mention any related tickets. This aids in the GitHub pull request review and helps reviewers focus on the right areas.

• Why This Matters:

  • Reduces back-and-forth communication.
  • Helps reviewers understand the intent and scope of changes.
  • Makes it easier for reviewers to know how to review a pull request effectively.

3. Improve Pull Request Workflows with Stacking

GitHub stacked pull requests allow you to build on top of unmerged PRs, organizing changes into a series of dependent PRs.

• How to Implement:

  • Sequential PRs: Break down a large feature into a series of PRs where each depends on the previous one.
  • Clear Dependencies: Document the order and dependencies between PRs.

• Benefits:

  • Reviewers can focus on one piece at a time.
  • Changes can be merged incrementally, improving the git pull request workflow.
  • Easier to identify and isolate issues.

• Concrete Example:

  • For a feature that requires database changes and API updates:
    • PR 1: Add the necessary database migrations.
    • PR 2: Update the backend API to use the new database schema.
    • PR 3: Adjust the frontend to interact with the updated API.

4. Foster Real-Time Teamwork

Collaboration is key to speeding up PR reviews.

• Best Practices:

  • Assign Reviewers: Use GitHub request review from team to notify the right people.
  • Communicate in Real-Time: Integrate GitHub with Slack or other communication tools to discuss PRs promptly and utilize features like GitHub suggest code change to streamline feedback.
  • Peer Programming: Consider pair programming or peer reviews to catch issues early.

• Concrete Example:

  • A team uses Slack channels dedicated to each project. When a PR is opened, a notification is sent to the channel, and team members can discuss and review the PR in real-time.

• Why This Matters:

  • Reduces delays caused by asynchronous communication.
  • Encourages a collaborative culture and shared code ownership.

5. Automate Workflow for Efficiency and Accuracy

Automation can handle repetitive tasks, reducing manual errors.

• Tools and Strategies:

  • Continuous Integration (CI): Automate testing to catch issues before review.
  • Code Review Automation Tools: Utilize tools like Axolo for seamless integration with Slack and GitHub. For more options, check out this comprehensive guide on code review automation tools.
  • GitHub Approve PR: Set up required checks and automatic approvals for passing tests to expedite the GitHub approve PR process.

• Benefits:

  • Accelerates the GitHub approval workflow.
  • Ensures only quality code reaches production.
  • Frees up developers to focus on more complex tasks.

• Concrete Example:

  • Implement a CI pipeline that automatically runs unit tests, integration tests, and linting checks on each PR. If all checks pass, the PR is automatically marked as ready for review.

6. Establish Clear Code Ownership and Responsibilities

Clearly defining who is responsible for reviewing PRs helps avoid delays.

• Strategies:

  • Use Code Owners: Implement a CODEOWNERS file in your repository to automatically assign reviewers based on file paths.
  • Set Review Policies: Define team agreements on who should review certain types of changes.

• Benefits:

  • Eliminates confusion over who should review a PR.
  • Ensures expertise is applied where it's most needed.

• Concrete Example:

  • For changes in the authentication module, the security team is automatically assigned as reviewers through the CODEOWNERS file.

7. Promote a Culture of Prioritizing Code Reviews

Cultivating a company culture that values prompt code reviews can significantly reduce PR delays.

• Strategies:

  • Set Expectations: Communicate the importance of timely reviews to the team.
  • Lead by Example: Team leads and senior developers should model prompt reviewing behavior.
  • Incentivize Reviews: Recognize and reward team members who consistently perform timely reviews.

• Benefits:

  • Encourages team members to allocate time for reviews.
  • Improves overall team productivity and morale.

• Concrete Example:

  • Implement a "review first" policy where developers start their day by reviewing pending PRs before writing new code.

8. Simplify and Standardize the Review Process

Streamlining the review process makes it more approachable and efficient.

• Strategies:

  • Pull Request Templates: Use templates to ensure all necessary information is provided.
  • Standardize Tools: Use familiar tools that integrate well with your existing workflow.
  • Define Guidelines: Establish clear coding standards and review criteria.

• Benefits:

  • Reduces variability in reviews.
  • Helps new team members get up to speed quickly.
  • Ensures consistency across the codebase.

• Concrete Example:

  • Create a PR template that includes sections for the description, testing instructions, and impact assessment.

9. Address Time Zone Differences in Distributed Teams

Implement practices to mitigate delays caused by time zone disparities.

• Strategies:

  • Overlap Hours: Establish common working hours where possible.
  • Asynchronous Communication: Use detailed PR comments and documentation to facilitate async reviews.
  • Regional Reviewers: Assign reviewers who are in similar time zones when feasible.

• Benefits:

  • Reduces waiting time between feedback cycles.
  • Ensures continuous progress on PRs.

• Concrete Example:

  • Leverage tools that facilitate asynchronous collaboration, and ensure team members provide detailed comments for peers in different time zones.

10. Implement Continuous Feedback Loops

Regularly review and improve your PR process based on team feedback.

• Strategies:

  • Retrospectives: Hold regular meetings to discuss what's working and what's not in the review process.
  • Surveys: Gather anonymous feedback on the PR workflow.
  • Adapt and Evolve: Be willing to change processes that are not effective.

• Benefits:

  • Promotes a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Engages team members in shaping the workflow.

• Concrete Example:

  • During sprint retrospectives, include a section dedicated to discussing the PR review process and gather suggestions for improvements.

11. Provide Training and Mentorship

Equip team members with the skills needed for effective code reviews.

• Strategies:

  • Workshops: Conduct training sessions on best practices for code reviews, including how to review a pull request effectively.
  • Documentation: Maintain updated guidelines and resources.
  • Mentorship Programs: Pair less experienced developers with seasoned mentors.

• Benefits:

  • Improves the quality of code reviews.
  • Encourages knowledge sharing and team cohesion.

• Concrete Example:

  • Organize monthly workshops on topics like security considerations during reviews or effective use of GitHub PR workflow features.

12. Leverage Metrics to Uncover Bottlenecks

By keeping an eye on key metrics, you can pinpoint where your process is slowing down and make targeted improvements.

• Strategies:

  • Track PR Durations and PR Size: Use tools to measure the time from PR creation to merge and analyze PR sizes to identify potential delays.
  • Identify Patterns: Look for consistent delays at specific stages.
  • Set Goals: Establish benchmarks for review times.

• Benefits:

  • Provides data-driven insights.
  • Helps in making informed decisions to optimize the workflow.
  • Following these practices aligns with GitHub best practices for teams.

• Concrete Example:

  • Utilize GitHub's analytics to generate reports on PR review times and address any bottlenecks in team meetings.

13. Leverage Code Review Automation Tools

Incorporate tools that automate repetitive aspects of code reviews.

• Strategies:

  • Static Analysis Tools: Automatically check for coding standards and common errors.
  • Automated Testing: Ensure all tests pass before a PR can be merged.
  • Integration with Communication Platforms: Use Axolo to bring PR discussions into Slack for quicker collaboration.
  • GitHub Suggest Code Change: Utilize the GitHub suggest code change feature to propose changes directly within the PR.

• Benefits:

  • Reduces manual workload for reviewers.
  • Catches issues early in the process.
  • Streamlines the GitHub approval workflow.
  • Implements GitHub best practices for teams.

• Concrete Example:

  • Set up automated comments from tools like GitHub Actions to provide immediate feedback on code quality.

14. Encourage Open Communication and Psychological Safety

Building a culture where team members feel comfortable sharing feedback leads to more effective reviews.

• Strategies:

  • Promote Respectful Feedback: Encourage constructive criticism delivered respectfully.
  • Lead by Example: Managers and senior developers should model open communication.
  • Address Conflicts Promptly: Tackle any interpersonal issues that may hinder open dialogue.
  • Educate on Resolving Changes: Ensure team members know how to resolve requested changes on GitHub.

• Benefits:

  • Enhances team collaboration.
  • Improves code quality through honest feedback.
  • Reduces delays caused by hesitation to comment on PRs.

• Concrete Example:

  • Implement guidelines for code reviews that emphasize positive language and focus on the code, not the individual.

15. Optimize for Time Zone Differences with Flexible Work Policies

Adapt work schedules to accommodate team members in different time zones.

• Strategies:

  • Flexible Hours: Allow team members to adjust their working hours to maximize overlap.
  • Rotation Policies: Rotate meeting times so the same people aren't always inconvenienced.
  • Utilize Global Teams: Assign reviewers who are available when code is submitted.

• Benefits:

  • Minimizes delays in the GitHub pull request workflow and the overall git pull request workflow.
  • Increases inclusivity and team satisfaction.

• Concrete Example:

  • If a developer in Asia submits a PR, assign a reviewer in a similar time zone to reduce waiting time.

By implementing these strategies, including fostering a positive company culture that values collaboration, communication, and continuous improvement, you can significantly enhance your GitHub pull request workflow and pull request workflow overall. Remember, technical solutions are most effective when supported by a team culture that encourages teamwork and openness.

How Axolo Accelerates Your GitHub Pull Requests

Managing pull request workflows can be complex, but Axolo simplifies the process. We integrate GitHub with Slack to streamline your GitHub pull request workflow, bringing code discussions directly into your team's communication channels.

Why Choose Axolo?

1. Real-Time Notifications

   Stay updated instantly with real-time notifications about PRs, approvals, comments, and requests. No more constant checking of GitHub or missing important updates due to email overload. With Axolo:

   • Immediate Alerts: Get notified the moment a PR is assigned to you or when someone comments on your code.
   • Customizable Notifications: Tailor your notification preferences to focus on what matters most.

2. Efficient Collaboration

Axolo creates dedicated Slack channels for each pull request, allowing your team to discuss code changes in a focused environment.

• Contextual Conversations: Keep discussions relevant and organized by having them tied directly to specific PRs.
• Seamless Integration: Share code snippets, images, and feedback without leaving Slack.
• Foster Team Culture: Encourage open communication and collaboration, bridging gaps caused by time zones or remote work.

3. Automated Workflows

   Automate routine tasks to enhance the GitHub approval workflow, reducing manual effort and the risk of oversight.

   • Auto-Assign Reviewers: Automatically assign PRs to the right team members based on code ownership or expertise.
   • Integrate CI/CD Tools: Receive build statuses and test results directly in Slack channels.
   • Merge Notifications: Get alerts when PRs are merged or require attention due to conflicts.

The Bottom Line: Axolo Transforms Your Development Workflow

By adopting Axolo, teams have experienced:

• Reduced PR Turnaround Time: Faster reviews mean quicker deployments and a more agile development process.
• Improved Code Quality: Enhanced collaboration leads to more thorough reviews and better code.
• Stronger Team Collaboration: Centralized communication fosters a culture of openness and shared responsibility.
• Adaptability Across Time Zones: Real-time updates and asynchronous communication tools help bridge gaps in distributed teams.

Ready to Accelerate Your Workflow?

Don't let slow pull requests hinder your team's productivity. Embrace a more efficient, collaborative, and automated approach with Axolo.

Conclusion

Slow pull requests don't have to be a roadblock in your development process. By addressing the underlying issues—like oversized PRs, limited reviewer availability, or communication barriers—you can streamline your workflow. Focus on creating smaller, manageable PRs, providing clear context, leveraging GitHub stacked pull requests, and fostering real-time collaboration within your team.

Company culture plays a crucial role. Promoting an environment that values prompt code reviews and open communication can significantly improve efficiency. Tools like Axolo support these efforts by integrating your pull request process into daily conversations, automating routine tasks, and providing real-time notifications.

By combining practical strategies with a supportive team culture and the right tools, you can accelerate your GitHub pull request review process. This not only speeds up development but also enhances code quality and boosts team morale.

Transform your pull request process from a bottleneck into a catalyst for collaboration and efficiency. Implement these approaches, leverage tools like Axolo, and witness a positive impact on your team's productivity.

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We no longer need to cut and paste MR URLs into Slack manually. Axolo also reduces button-clicking in the GitLab UI, because Slack can be used to assign a Reviewer and also Approve an MR. We no longer need to watch for email notifications and context-switch to the GitLab UI to have the discussion -- Axolo automatically opens (and archives) a channel dedicated to the MR discussion.

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Code quality has improved, engineers have a better understanding of what their colleagues are working on, and code is getting shipped much faster. Time from pull request open to review to merge is WAY faster, and engagement with reviews is much higher for our team. Axolo's team is also unbelievably fast in resolving issues when we run into them. Pleasure to work with them.

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Axolo is an incredible tool for connecting PRs with our everyday engineering discussion on Slack. It integrates seamlessly and makes it so as a manager, I never lose track of my engineers' work. For my engineers, it allows them to collaborate without losing a thread in different contexts. Overall it keeps us moving swiftly throughout the sprint and continuously reviewing and merging code!

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