The --no-ff option in the git merge command ensures that a merge commit is always created, even when a fast-forward merge is possible. This is useful for keeping a clear history of feature branches being merged into the main branch.
Fast Forward Merge: By default, Git performs a fast-forward merge if there are no diverging changes. This can result in a linear commit history without a separate merge commit.
Using --no-ff: The --no-ff option forces Git to create a merge commit, preserving the context that a feature branch was merged into the main branch, which is crucial for record-keeping and audit trails.
Reference:
Git Merge Documentation: Git Merge