software-architecture

Software Architecture Development Skill

This skill provides guidance for quality focused software development and architecture. It is based on Clean Architecture and Domain Driven Design principles.

Code Style Rules

General Principles

• Early return pattern: Always use early returns when possible, over nested conditions for better readability
• Avoid code duplication through creation of reusable functions and modules
• Decompose long (more than 80 lines of code) components and functions into multiple smaller components and functions. If they cannot be used anywhere else, keep it in the same file. But if file longer than 200 lines of code, it should be split into multiple files.
• Use arrow functions instead of function declarations when possible

Best Practices

Library-First Approach

• ALWAYS search for existing solutions before writing custom code
  • Check npm for existing libraries that solve the problem
  • Evaluate existing services/SaaS solutions
  • Consider third-party APIs for common functionality
• Use libraries instead of writing your own utils or helpers. For example, use cockatiel instead of writing your own retry logic.
• When custom code IS justified:
  • Specific business logic unique to the domain
  • Performance-critical paths with special requirements
  • When external dependencies would be overkill
  • Security-sensitive code requiring full control
  • When existing solutions don't meet requirements after thorough evaluation

Architecture and Design

• Clean Architecture & DDD Principles:
  • Follow domain-driven design and ubiquitous language
  • Separate domain entities from infrastructure concerns
  • Keep business logic independent of frameworks
  • Define use cases clearly and keep them isolated
• Naming Conventions:
  • AVOID generic names: utils, helpers, common, shared
  • USE domain-specific names: OrderCalculator, UserAuthenticator, InvoiceGenerator
  • Follow bounded context naming patterns
  • Each module should have a single, clear purpose
• Separation of Concerns:
  • Do NOT mix business logic with UI components
  • Keep database queries out of controllers
  • Maintain clear boundaries between contexts
  • Ensure proper separation of responsibilities