The author argues that abstract architectural discussions about microservices are often unproductive. Instead of focusing on theoretical benefits and drawbacks, conversations should center on concrete business problems and how microservices might address them. Architects tend to get bogged down in ideal scenarios and complex diagrams, losing sight of the practicalities of implementation and the potential negative impact on team productivity. The author advocates for a more pragmatic, iterative approach, starting with a monolith and gradually decomposing it into microservices only when justified by specific business needs, like scaling particular functionalities or enabling independent deployments. This shift in focus from theoretical architecture to measurable business value ensures that microservices serve the organization, not the other way around.
"Architecture Patterns with Python" introduces practical architectural patterns for structuring Python applications beyond simple scripts. It focuses on Domain-Driven Design (DDD) principles and demonstrates how to implement them alongside architectural patterns like dependency injection and the repository pattern to create well-organized, testable, and maintainable code. The book guides readers through building a realistic application, iteratively improving its architecture to handle increasing complexity and evolving requirements. It emphasizes using Python's strengths effectively while promoting best practices for software design, ultimately enabling developers to create robust and scalable applications.
Hacker News users generally expressed interest in "Architecture Patterns with Python," praising its clear writing and practical approach. Several commenters highlighted the book's focus on domain-driven design and its suitability for bridging the gap between simple scripts and complex applications. Some appreciated the free online availability, while others noted the value of supporting the authors by purchasing the book. A few users compared it favorably to other architecture resources, emphasizing its Python-specific examples. The discussion also touched on testing strategies and the balance between architecture and premature optimization. A couple of commenters pointed out the book's emphasis on using readily available tools and libraries rather than introducing new frameworks.
Summary of Comments ( 37 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43515563
Hacker News commenters generally agreed with the author's premise that architects often over-engineer microservice architectures. Several pointed out that the drive towards microservices often comes from vendors pushing their products and technologies, rather than actual business needs. Some argued that "architect" has become a diluted title, often held by those lacking practical experience. A compelling argument raised was that good architecture should be invisible, enabling developers, rather than dictating complex structures. Others shared anecdotes of overly complex microservice implementations that created more problems than they solved, emphasizing the importance of starting simple and evolving as needed. A few commenters, however, defended the role of architects, suggesting that the article painted with too broad a brush and that experienced architects can add significant value.
The Hacker News post titled "Why I'm No Longer Talking to Architects About Microservices" (linking to an article on the same topic) generated a moderate amount of discussion, with several commenters sharing their perspectives on the role of architects in microservice adoption and the challenges of implementing them effectively.
Several commenters echoed the sentiment of the original article, expressing frustration with architects who promote microservices as a silver bullet without a deep understanding of the complexities involved. One commenter noted how some architects focus excessively on theoretical purity and complex diagrams, losing sight of the practical considerations and trade-offs required in real-world projects. They highlighted the importance of understanding the problem domain and choosing the right architecture for the specific needs, rather than blindly following trends.
Another commenter pointed out the potential disconnect between architects who design systems and the developers who actually build and maintain them. They emphasized the need for architects to be more hands-on and involved in the implementation process, gaining practical experience with the technologies they advocate. This, they argued, would lead to more realistic and effective architectural decisions.
The discussion also touched upon the importance of communication and collaboration between architects and developers. One comment suggested that the issue isn't necessarily architects themselves, but rather a lack of clear communication and shared understanding. They advocated for a more collaborative approach, where architects and developers work together to define the architecture and ensure its successful implementation.
A different perspective was offered by a commenter who argued that architects do have a valuable role to play in microservice adoption, particularly in large organizations. They suggested that architects can help establish guidelines, patterns, and best practices for implementing microservices consistently across different teams. However, they acknowledged the risk of architects becoming detached from the realities of development, reinforcing the need for practical experience and ongoing communication.
Some commenters also discussed the potential downsides of microservices, such as increased complexity, operational overhead, and the need for robust monitoring and logging. They cautioned against adopting microservices prematurely or without a clear understanding of the benefits and trade-offs.
While there was a general agreement on the challenges associated with microservice adoption and the importance of pragmatic architectural decisions, the comments also highlighted the diverse perspectives on the role of architects in this process. The discussion emphasized the need for collaboration, communication, and a deep understanding of both the technical and organizational context when implementing microservices.