How to use version control in Retool?

 

Using Version Control in Retool

 

Implementing version control in Retool involves setting up your environment to manage and track changes over time. This process helps in maintaining versions of Retool applications, collaborating effectively, and rolling back to previous versions if needed. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to use version control in Retool.

 

Prerequisites

 

• An active Retool account with necessary permissions to create and manage projects.
• Basic understanding of Git or another version control system that integrates with Retool.
• Access to a Git repository (e.g., GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket) where Retool changes can be stored and tracked.

 

Setting Up a Retool Project for Version Control

 

• Start by logging into your Retool account and navigate to the workspace where your application resides.
• Select the app you want to manage through version control. Ensure you have the latest version saved in Retool before proceeding.
• If your Retool instance supports native Git integration, you'll find options to connect to your Git repository. Navigate to this setting.

 

Integrating with a Git Repository

 

• Provide the necessary authorization and connect Retool with your chosen Git provider. You may need to create an OAuth application or generate a personal access token depending on the provider.
• Configure repository settings in Retool: Specify the repository URL, branch, and any paths necessary for managing Retool files.
• Confirm the integration and view your connected repositories. Retool should now be linked to your Git repository for version management.

 

Exporting Retool Applications to a Repository

 

• In Retool, use the export functionality to download the JSON configuration of your current application. This will be the file you track changes with in your Git repository.
• Go to your local Git repository directory, or use the web interface provided by your Git service, to upload this exported file.
• Commit these changes with a descriptive message about the application's state or updates.

 

Making Changes and Committing Updates

 

• Any changes made within Retool can be backed up via exporting and uploading to your repository. Repeat the export process after making significant updates or application changes.
• Regularly commit changes with detailed messages to keep track of what modifications were made and when.
• Use branches in Git to test new features or modifications by exporting changes and committing them to a separate branch. This avoids breaking the main application.

 

Collaborating with Team Members

 

• Invite team members to the Retool project within the platform, ensuring they have the right permissions to make and export changes.
• Share the Git repository URL with the team for them to clone or pull the latest version of application files for local edits.
• Team members should follow the same process of exporting and committing changes to the repository to maintain a synchronized state across collaborators.

 

Deploying and Rolling Back Versions

 

• To deploy a version, ensure the latest changes are exported from Retool and are pushed to the main branch of your Git repository.
• In case of issues or errors after a new deployment, use your version control system to roll back to a previous commit by reverting the file or switching branches.
• Update the application in Retool with the rollback changes by importing the desired previous state files.

 

Testing and Validating the Application

 

• After any change or rollback, it’s crucial to test the application thoroughly in Retool to ensure everything functions as expected.
• Leverage Retool’s preview mode to simulate application interactions and confirm that changes align with expected outcomes.
• Debug using Retool’s built-in consoles or by reviewing JSON configurations if discrepancies arise during testing.

 

By following this detailed guide, you can effectively use version control to manage changes in your Retool applications, facilitating a robust development workflow with enhanced collaboration and stability.