Introducing required workflows and configuration variables to GitHub Actions

As of June 12, 2023, GitHub Actions has introduced two new features in public beta—required workflows and configuration variables—aimed at improving DevOps processes by standardizing policies and reducing duplication across repositories. Required workflows enable DevOps teams to enforce consistent CI/CD practices organization-wide without configuring each repository individually, enhancing security, compliance, and deployment. These workflows become mandatory status checks on pull requests, preventing merging until successful completion. Configuration variables complement this by allowing non-sensitive data to be stored as plain text, facilitating easier reuse and parameterization across repositories, which addresses feedback for customizable workflow values. These features collectively simplify the management and protection of software assets, offering a streamlined approach to applying consistent standards.