Artifact Repository
Introduction
In software development, managing dependencies across modules is crucial for scalability, independence, and flexibility. In Machanism, the Artifact Repository serves as the backbone for enabling this modular architecture. It is more than just a storage space—it’s an integral part of building, sharing, and integrating reusable components, or “bricks,” that form the foundation of the Machanism ecosystem.
As Robert C. Martin said1, "Software architecture is the art of drawing lines that I call boundaries." Machanism takes this idea to heart. Delivering each module as an artifact and using it as a dependency introduces robust boundaries that reinforce modularity and independence. This ensures that every module is independently deployable, reusable, and self-contained—all while contributing seamlessly to the larger ecosystem.
Machanism Artifacts Locations
| Program Language | Repository | Seed Project |
|---|---|---|
| Java | Maven Central | Macha |
| JavaScript | NPM Registry | Machb |
| Python | Python Package Index | Machc |
How Artifact Repositories Work in Machanism
Every project in Machanism operates as its own brick, a standalone reusable module designed to solve a specific problem. These bricks are not interconnected by relative paths or tightly coupled source repositories. Instead, they depend on versioned artifacts stored in the Artifact Repository.
Here’s what that means in practice:
- No Relative Paths: Machanism enforces the rule of “no relative paths” between modules.
- Versioned Dependencies: Submodules rely on specific versions of artifacts hosted in the repository.
- Decoupled Reusability: Each submodule can act as a standalone project without breaking the larger ecosystem.
This approach eliminates the need for cloning external code repositories and simplifies dependency management. Developers can collaborate on independent modules, knowing their contributions integrate seamlessly through artifact dependencies.
Benefits of the Artifact Repository in Machanism
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Modularity and Independence
- Keep each project independent from others. Developers don’t need to clone large monorepos or rely on local source paths.
- Each brick remains flexible, reusable, and isolated.
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Stand-Alone Submodules
- Submodules function autonomously, allowing teams to scale their workflows by focusing on one module at a time.
- Changes to one submodule don’t disrupt others, as they are linked through versioned artifacts.
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Seamless Versioning and Updates
- You always get the exact version of a dependency you need. Artifacts are version-controlled, enabling predictable and safe updates.
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Improved Collaboration
- Teams working on various modules can collaborate independently while ensuring compatibility through defined artifact dependencies.
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Global Accessibility via Machanism.org
- Artifacts created under the Machanism platform are stored and shared globally via machanism.org, ensuring consistent access for all developers.
How to Use Artifacts in Machanism
Here’s an overview of how the artifact repository simplifies your workflow:
Step 1: Deliver as Artifacts
Each module’s output must be delivered as a complete and functional artifact. These artifacts are versioned and stored in the repository, ready to be used by other systems or modules.
Step 2: Consume by Dependency
When building modular applications using Machanism, each brick depends on artifacts stored in the repository. No cloning or copying of other teams' code is required. Instead, simply declare the artifact dependency to pull in an already-published version.
Flexibility in Choosing an Artifact Repository
Machanism doesn’t dictate which artifact repository to use—the choice is yours. Whether you prefer Maven Central for Java projects, PyPI for Python libraries, or a private Nexus repository for internal teams, all options are valid.
However, Machanism enforces one simple requirement:
Every artifact must be usable as a dependency.
This means your artifact, regardless of how or where it is published, must integrate easily into the ecosystem as a reusable and versioned component.
Why Artifact Repositories Matter
As Robert C. Martin pointed out1, "One way to construct a partial boundary is to do all the work necessary to create independently compilable and deployable components, and then simply keep them together in the same component."
While this approach may sound tempting, it quickly leads to entangled dependencies, creating fragile systems. In Machanism, we avoid this mistake. By delivering artifacts independently and resolving dependencies through the Artifact Repository, we ensure that boundaries are always well-defined, consistent, and robust.
Machanism.org: A Home for Every Artifact
Machanism.org is more than a website—it’s the root domain for all Machanism artifacts. Every module or brick created within the Machanism ecosystem is stored, versioned, and shared here.
This centralized hub embodies Machanism’s vision: a global collaborative space where developers can build modular and reusable components that solve real-world problems flexibly and efficiently.
Machanism.org ensures:
- Consistency: Every artifact is managed within its lifecycle.
- Accessibility: Developers around the globe can easily access artifacts.
- Integration: Each artifact integrates seamlessly into projects through defined dependencies.
Final Thoughts
The Artifact Repository is not just a concept in Machanism—it’s the backbone of how modular applications are developed, shared, and deployed. It eliminates monolithic dependencies, prioritizes modularity, and empowers developers to focus on solving real problems rather than managing tangled codebases.
With Machanism, every boundary is a bridge. A bridge that connects reusable components into scalable, maintainable systems for the future.
And as always, remember the cornerstone of Machanism: Divide and Use.