getversion

Getversion is a term used to describe a software interface—such as a function, method, script, or binary—that returns version information for software components. It is not standardized as a single command, but rather a pattern implemented across projects to expose runtime or build-time version data.

In practice, getversion is used in build pipelines, installers, diagnostics, and release processes to determine exactly which versions are installed or running. Implementations may report the version of the target application, the libraries it depends on, or the runtime environment. Some variants also expose auxiliary metadata such as build date, commit hash, and build configuration.

Formats and outputs vary. Most return a version string in a numeric form compatible with semantic versioning (for example, 1.4.2), sometimes with qualifiers like alpha or beta, or additional metadata such as build information. Outputs can be plain text, structured formats like JSON, or exports suitable for scripting environments.

Implementation approaches differ by language and platform. In code, getversion may be a function or property that reads metadata from a package manifest (such as package.json, pyproject.toml, or pom.xml) or from embedded resources created during the build. In shell scripts, a small utility may parse a configuration file or query a version tag from a version control system.

Limitations include potential discrepancies between components, caching of version data, and reliance on upstream metadata. When used consistently, getversion supports traceability, reproducibility, and easier maintenance within complex software ecosystems.

See also: semantic versioning, package management, build automation, release notes.