Database migrations provide version control for database schema changes, enabling teams to manage database evolution systematically. Migrations ensure consistent database structure across all environments (development, testing, production) and allow for reversible changes.

Key benefits include: tracking all schema changes in source control, enabling team collaboration without manual SQL scripts, automating deployment processes, and maintaining data integrity during updates. Migration tools like Liquibase, Flyway, or framework-specific solutions (Django Migrations, Rails ActiveRecord) handle complex scenarios.

Implement migrations as incremental changes with both "up" and "down" methods for rollback capability. Test migrations thoroughly in staging environments before production deployment. Include data migrations when schema changes require data transformation. Document migration patterns and establish review processes for migration scripts.