Softcoding: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 08:47, 23 June 2010

Revision as of 09:18, 8 July 2010

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'''Softcoding''' is a [[computer programming|computer coding]] term that refers to obtaining a value or function from some external resource, such as a [[preprocessor macro]], external constant, configuration file, command line argument or database table. It is the opposite of [[hardcoding]], which refers to coding values and functions in the source code.

Avoiding hard-coding of commonly altered values is a good programming practice. Users of the software should be able to customize it to their needs, within reason, without having to edit the program's source code. Similarly, careful programmers avoid [[Magic number (programming)#Unnamed numerical constants|Magicmagic Numbersnumbers]] in their code, to improve its readability, and assist maintenance. These practices are generally not referred to as 'softcoding'.

The term is generally used where Softcodingsoftcoding becomes an [[anti-pattern]]. Abstracting too many values and features can introduce more complexity and maintenance issues than would be experienced with changing the code when required. Softcoding, in this sense, was featured in an article on [[The Daily WTF]].<ref>[http://worsethanfailure.com/Articles/Soft_Coding.aspx Softcoding] from [[The Daily WTF]]</ref>.

At the extreme end, soft-coded programs develop their own poorly-designed and implemented scripting languages, and configuration files that require advanced programming skills to edit. This can lead to the production of utilities to assist in configuring the original program, and these utilities often end up being 'softcoded' themselves.