batcmd

batcmd is a cross-platform command-line tool designed to orchestrate the execution of batch commands and scripts across diverse operating environments. It is commonly used to automate repetitive tasks, manage build and deployment pipelines, and streamline IT maintenance workflows.

Core features include simple workflow definitions, deterministic execution of listed steps, and integrated logging. batcmd typically supports running multiple commands in sequence, capturing exit codes, and reporting success or failure. Some implementations offer optional parallel execution, retry logic for failed steps, and environment variable substitution to adapt workflows to different machines.

Architecture and workflow: A typical batcmd setup comprises a lightweight runtime and a workflow configuration file that lists steps, their commands, dependencies, and any conditions for progression. The runtime executes each step through the host system shell or a platform-appropriate API, collecting output and status information for reporting and auditing.

Usage: After installation, users create a workflow file (for example batcmd.yaml or batcmd.json) describing the tasks to run, then invoke the tool to execute the workflow. Common patterns include automated builds, tests, deployments, and routine maintenance tasks. The tool may offer dry-run mode to validate a workflow without executing commands.

Compatibility and ecosystem: batcmd aims to be portable across Windows, macOS, and Linux. It typically integrates with native shells such as PowerShell or Bash and can run a variety of scripts or commands defined in the workflow. It often forms part of broader automation toolchains and CI/CD pipelines. See also batch processing tools and task runners such as Make, Rake, and npm scripts.