Gradle is an open source build automation ( Build Automation) tool. Definition of building automation, please refer to: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Build_automation . Meanwhile Gradle is designed to be flexible enough to be used to build virtually any type of software.
The following are some of the features elaborate on some of the features of Gradle up from a macro:
high performance
Gradle task by running need to run to avoid unnecessary work. Because the input and output may change. You can also build the cache by enabling the state to make the last run of the building can be reused, even you can do it on a different machine (shared by constructing cache).
Gradle the same time there are many practical optimization, Gradle development team has insisted on developing use to improve the performance of Gradle.
Based on JVM
Gradle is a virtual machine running on the JVM, so your machine must be installed JDK. For users using the Java platform, it will bring great benefits, these users can use standard Java API in their build (build) logic. Including the use of custom task type and plug-ins. But also to make it easier Gradle to run on other platforms.
Please note, Gradle build JVM is not just limited to the project, and even build native support for packaged items.
Convertible
For Java project, Gradle removed a lot of cumbersome features of Maven, Maven can more easily achieve the conversion. By reference to appropriate proper plug-ins, you can reduce the complexity of building scripts for your project.
However, these conversions are not confined to your use: Gradle to run your overloaded (override) them, add your custom task, to provide more customization for your project-based conversion.
Scalable
You can provide your own type of task or build models to extend the Gradle. Please refer to the Android support for the construction of the demonstration as a sample: might add some new building concepts, such as flavors and build types.
Support IDE
Some mainstream IDE will allow you to import Gradle build at the same time be able to convert them: Android Studio, IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse and NetBeans. Meanwhile Gradle also be able to support the creation of import Visual Studio project files needed solution.
Self-scanning and repair
Build the Scan (Build scans) provides a build errors and help you identify problem extension tool. At the same time this tool can better help you identify and locate building performance issues that may exist.
You can also share with other users scan your build, share this feature is very useful and efficient when you want to get the help of other developers.