Pull requests were originally created by open-source communities to enable asynchronous collaboration on shared codebases. In these environments, contributions are often reviewed over several days or even weeks, since many contributors participate part-time. This asynchronous approach works well in such settings, allowing maintainers to review code when it's convenient for them.

However, in synchronized environments like corporate development teams, this model has significant limitations. Most companies work in structured sprints, typically lasting 2–6 weeks. If a pull request takes two weeks to get reviewed and merged, it can block progress, especially when subsequent work depends on that code.

Pull requests are still a great way to integrate changes and leverage automated CI pipelines. But in a corporate setting, code reviews serve another critical purpose: knowledge sharing. This is far more effective when done in real time—through live calls or meetings—where team members can ask questions, clarify intentions, and align on design choices. Live reviews foster shared understanding and help spread team culture and best practices.

It’s essential to create a culture where developers don’t just passively accept review comments but engage with them, asking questions, challenging assumptions, and learning from the process. A review process has failed if every comment is accepted without discussion; the reviewer is not always right.

If the goal is to teach formatting or stylistic conventions, especially for new team members, live sessions are more effective than filling a PR with nitpicky comments. These conversations are often quicker, more interactive, and help onboard new developers faster.

In short, prioritize live code reviews whenever possible. They speed up development, improve code quality, and promote team learning. There’s nothing worse than a developer spending two weeks building in the wrong direction simply because no one had time for a timely review.