Architecture or Clean Code ?
When we talk about software development, the concepts of clean code and good architecture often emerge. Clean code principles, popularized by Robert C. Martin in his book “Clean Code,” emphasize writing code that is readable, maintainable, and modular. At a glance, it would seem that adhering to these principles is all that is needed to create effective software solutions. However, while clean code principles are important, they are not the be-all and end-all. A software project’s architecture is arguably more crucial, especially when it comes to larger systems and business applications.
Clean Code Can Be Misleading
One of the most common criticisms of clean code principles is that they can be “gamed.” For instance, a developer can split a large class into smaller ones to make it seem like they are adhering to the Single Responsibility Principle. Similarly, it’s easy to extract numerous injected arguments into a single object parameter in function methods to make it appear more organized. While these actions may tick off checkboxes on a clean code checklist, they don’t necessarily mean the system’s design is sound or efficient.
Clean Code Doesn’t Guarantee Correct Business Logic
A system can have code that is impeccably formatted, well-documented, and free of redundancies but still fail in its primary task: accurately capturing and implementing business logic. Good architecture, on the other hand, ensures that the system is designed with business requirements in mind from the ground up.
Business Logic Boundaries Are Paramount
Establishing clear business logic boundaries is a hallmark of good architecture. With well-defined boundaries, it becomes simpler to modify or add new business logic to the codebase. This flexibility can be a lifesaver when requirements change or when the system needs to scale.
Class Cohesion Isn’t Always Enough
A tightly cohesive class might seem like a win in the clean code department, but high cohesion doesn’t guarantee that the business logic in components are correctly delineated. This can be problematic when introducing complex changes, potentially causing ripple effects throughout the application.
So it’s more important to care about modules cohesion over class cohesion (both are important – just one is more 🙂 )
Maintainability and Scalability
Architecture prioritizes the system’s overall maintainability and scalability. A well-architected system can accommodate growth and change without necessitating major overhauls.
Performance
A clean code might look good on the surface, but without proper architecture, the system might not be optimized for performance. Architectural decisions impact how data flows, how services communicate, and how resources are utilized.
Security
Good architecture considers security at its core. While clean code can ensure fewer bugs, architectural decisions ensure that the system is safeguarded against various threats.
In conclusion, while clean code principles are undeniably valuable, they should be viewed as complementary to, not a replacement for, good architecture. For software systems to truly thrive, architecture must take the center stage, ensuring that systems are robust, flexible, and aligned with business goals.