What software development method allows code updates to be tested and committed to a development environment continuously?

The method that allows for code updates to be tested and committed to a development environment continuously is Continuous Integration. This practice involves developers frequently merging their code changes into a central repository, where automated builds and tests run to verify the integration of the new code. By integrating changes continuously, teams can detect errors quickly and improve software quality, making it easier to ensure that new features and updates do not disrupt the software's functionality.

In the context of software development, Continuous Integration is crucial as it helps maintain a high standard of code quality and facilitates more efficient workflows. The automation of testing allows teams to identify and fix problems early in the development process, leading to quicker releases and better collaboration among team members. This practice is foundational to modern development workflows and is essential for implementing more advanced methodologies like Continuous Delivery and Continuous Deployment.