Build Systems Debate

Comments discuss the problems with existing software build systems, the need for new or better ones, and debates over their scope, design, and alternatives like Ninja, Bazel, and CMake.

📉 Falling 0.4x DevOps & Infrastructure
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Keywords

e.g JSON JS NET build.rs KHTML KISS PKG IDE RPM build build systems build tools env dependencies ninja systems need build files filesystem

Sample Comments

nottorp • Nov 22, 2022 • View on HN

The fact that there simply isn't a widely accepted build system just means it's not a solved problem yet.

xigoi • Nov 13, 2022 • View on HN

That's really stretching the definition of “build system”.

pharmakom • Sep 14, 2022 • View on HN

I think this is out of scope for a build system.

karmakaze • Nov 28, 2020 • View on HN

What was/is the motivation for this build system that an existing one doesn't satisfy?

coherentpony • Apr 10, 2015 • View on HN

In fairness, you can do that in every build system. All build systems are awful. Pick the one you know best.

cozzyd • Nov 17, 2020 • View on HN

It's a pain to integrate into a normal build system, especially if you have to make a change after you get started.

MaximilianEmel • Mar 30, 2024 • View on HN

We need to get these complex & bloated build-systems under control.

zem • Oct 28, 2024 • View on HN

I recommend the "build systems a la carte" paper for a good overview of the various problems build systems address

robertlagrant • Nov 14, 2024 • View on HN

Certainly from a build system perspective.

bartekpacia • Feb 2, 2025 • View on HN

Does the world need yet another build system? (not sure, just thinking out loud)