Thursday, October 23, 2008

API Usability

The success of an API/component largely depends on its usability: is it easy to create, is it easy to handle, is it easy to wire? Is it easy to make a mistake? Are some contracts unclear ?

The first feedback we get from (unit-)tests. Unfortunately a lot of people don't do that.
Another point is that the tests (partially) lie about how the component is used: they represent how the author assumes the component will be used. Feedback from customers and refactorings should follow...

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