Continuous deployment is an automated process that enables rapid delivery of product features with every code push, aimed at gaining earlier feedback and facilitating faster development. It is used by notable companies like Facebook and Etsy, and can be effectively implemented by smaller startups such as Kitchensurfing, which utilizes a specific workflow involving code review, continuous integration, and deployment to Heroku. Key insights include trusting your test suite, using feature flags, and ensuring team-wide support for the transition to continuous deployment.