Code Generators

[chrishannah]

I've done some looking into Code Generators, and they might not be socially acceptable here. But I thought it might be an easier way to learn how to develop. I'm just wondering if there is any for mac as the only ones i've seen are on the actual iPhone and i find that odd.

[Kallex]

Originally Posted by chrishannah

I've done some looking into Code Generators, and they might not be socially acceptable here. But I thought it might be an easier way to learn how to develop. I'm just wondering if there is any for mac as the only ones i've seen are on the actual iPhone and i find that odd.

Hello,

There is a way to do code generation that it holds for the any/usual arguments that "socially acceptable" will raise against code generation in general.

However the usual arguments are valid in a sense, that done ill, the code generation does not help learning anything but poor way of creating crappy software fast.

There are ways to introduce structured "automation" in iPhone development (fully by the community); we're currently progressing the means to be concrete and ready to use for anyone who wants to use and make the automation modules that would do exactly what you're looking for... make learning easier but be applicable on seasoned developer productivity as well.


Kalle

[chrishannah]

Originally Posted by Kallex

Hello,

There is a way to do code generation that it holds for the any/usual arguments that "socially acceptable" will raise against code generation in general.

However the usual arguments are valid in a sense, that done ill, the code generation does not help learning anything but poor way of creating crappy software fast.

There are ways to introduce structured "automation" in iPhone development (fully by the community); we're currently progressing the means to be concrete and ready to use for anyone who wants to use and make the automation modules that would do exactly what you're looking for... make learning easier but be applicable on seasoned developer productivity as well.


Kalle

Hmm, wel I didn't really want to generate the whole code and the actions, etc. I want to learn that. But I wanted a way so you could set out various views sort everything out between them and do transitions etc easier, but I now have storyboards!

And I've also realised I shouldn't really be using these as that way I probably won't learn the code, and won't be able to refactor or optimise later on.

[Kallex]

Originally Posted by chrishannah

Hmm, wel I didn't really want to generate the whole code and the actions, etc. I want to learn that. But I wanted a way so you could set out various views sort everything out between them and do transitions etc easier, but I now have storyboards!

And I've also realised I shouldn't really be using these as that way I probably won't learn the code, and won't be able to refactor or optimise later on.

I understand exactly your points and agree with them.

Point is, that code generators properly made are there to aid, and are completely customizable.

They actually make learning easier, because you can see the "reference implementation" in place generated. You still can write everything by-hand or simply modify the generators so that they produce what you wanted them to do.

Not taking away the liberty and freedom to write any necessary code, but replacing "off-line" HOW-TO and references which might get outdated. Generator code that compiles and more importantly executes and works, is the best reference example you can have.


I'll try to push our example on iOS asap, should be done in 1-2 weeks as I have to find good solid target and polish semi-sensible Objective-C implementation out for the reference to use in the generators.


Kalle