True or False: Changes must be verified before merging a user story branch to the develop branch.

The statement is true because verifying changes is a critical step in the development process. Before merging a user story branch into the develop branch, it is essential to ensure that the changes meet the acceptance criteria and do not introduce new bugs or issues into the codebase. This verification process typically involves thorough testing, including manual review and automated testing, to confirm that the new features function as intended and that existing functionality remains unaffected.

Merging changes without adequate verification could lead to integration issues and regressions, impacting the overall stability and reliability of the application. It's a best practice in software development to maintain high code quality, and verification serves as a safeguard to uphold this standard, ensuring that any integration into the main development line is safe and beneficial. This approach fosters a disciplined workflow, promotes collaboration within the development team, and enhances the overall development experience.