As a programmer, organizing your code files is just as important as writing clean and efficient code. When it comes to structuring your code files, the approach you take can make all the difference in terms of the maintainability, scalability, and modularity of your codebase. In this article, we will discuss why you should use domain and functional-based file structure rather than technology-based file structure, and how to do it effectively.
First, let’s talk about what we mean by “technology-based file structure.” This is a file organization method where files are grouped by the technology they use, such as “views”, “controllers”, “models”, or “services.” This approach was popularized by frameworks like Ruby on Rails and has been widely adopted across many other languages and frameworks.
However, as your project grows, this approach can become increasingly complex and unmanageable. The problem with technology-based file structure is that it encourages you to think about your code in terms of the tools and frameworks you use, rather than the actual business logic of your application. This can lead to code that is tightly coupled and difficult to change or refactor.
On the other hand, a domain and functional-based file structure encourages you to think about your code in terms of the different domains and functions of your application. In this approach, you group files based on the different functional areas of your application, such as “authentication”, “billing”, “shipping”, or “user management.” You can further divide these functional areas into “domains,” such as “payments”, “invoices”, or “subscriptions.”
So, why is this approach better than technology-based file structure? For one, it allows you to think about your code in a more modular and organized way. By separating your code into functional areas, you can focus on each area independently and make changes without affecting other parts of the codebase. This makes your code more maintainable and scalable over time.
Additionally, a domain and functional-based file structure makes it easier for new developers to understand and contribute to your codebase. By grouping code based on function rather than technology, it becomes easier for developers to find and understand the code they need to work with. This can save a lot of time and reduce the risk of bugs or errors caused by misunderstandings of the codebase.
So, how can you implement a domain and functional-based file structure in your own codebase? Here are some tips:
Identify the functional areas of your application: Start by identifying the different functional areas of your application. Think about the different features and functions that your application provides and group them into functional areas.
Divide functional areas into domains: Once you have identified the functional areas of your application, you can further divide them into domains. For example, the “payments” functional area might be divided into domains such as “credit card payments” or “paypal payments.”
Create folders for each functional area and domain: Once you have identified the different functional areas and domains of your application, create folders for each one. This will be the top-level structure of your codebase.
Place related code files inside the appropriate folder: When you create new code files, make sure to place them in the appropriate folder based on their functional area and domain. For example, if you are creating a new file for processing credit card payments, it should go in the “credit card payments” domain folder.
Use consistent naming conventions: Make sure to use consistent naming conventions for your files and folders. This will make it easier to find and understand your code.
It is also easier to delete any domains if they are no longer needed. For example, if you decide to stop accepting credit card payments, you can simply delete the “credit card payments” domain folder and all of its contents.
In conclusion, structuring your code files based on domain and function is a more modular, maintainable, and scalable approach than a technology-based file structure. By focusing on the functional areas and domains of your application, you can create a codebase that is easier