Code reviews are essential for ensuring the quality, security, and performance of web applications. However, web frameworks often introduce complex dependencies that can make code reviews more challenging. How can you handle dependencies in web framework code reviews? Here are some tips to help you.
The first step is to identify the dependencies that your web framework uses or requires. These can be external libraries, modules, packages, plugins, or components that provide functionality, data, or services to your web application. You can use tools like dependency managers, package managers, or bundlers to list, install, update, and track your dependencies. For example, if you use Node.js, you can use npm or yarn to manage your dependencies in a package.json file.
One thing that has proven useful would be tracking dependencies is crucial, highlighting the dynamic nature of software development where dependencies can evolve over time. For example: Using Blackduck tool for tracking dependencies, developers can stay informed about the status of their dependencies and address any potential issues proactively.
When reviewing code for web applications (React.js, Angular, Vue.js), start by identifying dependencies using npm or yarn. Framework-specific dependencies are listed in the `package.json` file. Examine source code for import statements, and use tools like `npm ls` or `yarn list` for a graphical view of dependencies. Package manager commands, such as `npm list`, provide insights into installed dependencies and versions. This systematic, framework-agnostic approach ensures a thorough understanding, setting the stage for a comprehensive code review.
The next step is to review the dependencies that your web framework code relies on. You should check the quality, security, and compatibility of the dependencies, as well as their licenses and documentation. You can use tools like code analysis, vulnerability scanners, or code quality metrics to evaluate the dependencies. For example, if you use Ruby on Rails, you can use bundler-audit or brakeman to scan your dependencies for security issues.
In every PR, you should look whether an package/library has been added and it should be raised if the purpose of it is questioned or if it's one that has never been used before by the organization.
We should regularly manage the dependencies and one thing that we can do is review the existing and want-to-be-added dependencies. For existing ones, we can do audit by using package manager (npm/yarn audit) or code analysis tool (eg: Snyk, Bundler-Audit). The other hand, for want-to-be-added dependencies, I think it would be better if we can initially find out whether the functionality that we want to add is limited on the those deps or we can build them up by ourselves. If the condition is the first answer, then find out several alternatives and do comparison among them based on how many open issues, how many the downloads, when was the latest published, how big the package size, what's the license, etc, to ensure we add necessary deps.
In the process of reviewing dependencies for web frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue, it's crucial to evaluate their quality, security, and compatibility. Examine licenses and documentation to ensure compliance. Utilize tools specific to your framework, such as npm audit for React, ng audit for Angular, or yarn audit for Vue, to scan for security vulnerabilities and maintain code quality. This thorough assessment ensures a robust and secure foundation for your web application.
The third step is to minimize the dependencies that your web framework code uses. You should avoid adding unnecessary, outdated, or incompatible dependencies that can increase the complexity, size, or risk of your web application. You can use tools like tree-shaking, code splitting, or dead code elimination to remove unused or redundant dependencies. For example, if you use React, you can use webpack or rollup to optimize your dependencies and bundle your code.
Minimizing dependencies in web framework development is crucial for maintaining a streamlined and efficient codebase. Aim to include only essential dependencies that directly contribute to the project's functionality, reducing unnecessary complexity. For instance, if a lightweight utility can accomplish a specific task without relying on an external library, opt for simplicity to enhance code maintainability. A practical guide involves regular reviews of dependencies, removing any that are no longer necessary, and favoring solutions that align with the project's specific needs. By minimizing dependencies, developers can improve code readability, reduce potential conflicts, and enhance overall project stability.
Aim for a lean and efficient codebase by minimizing unnecessary dependencies. Evaluate if certain functionalities can be achieved with in-house solutions or by leveraging core language features. Reducing dependencies not only streamlines the project but also makes it more maintainable in the long run.
The fourth step is to document the dependencies that your web framework code depends on. You should provide clear and concise information about the purpose, version, source, and configuration of the dependencies, as well as any issues or limitations that they may have. You can use tools like README files, comments, or annotations to document your dependencies. For example, if you use Django, you can use pip or pipenv to generate a requirements.txt or Pipfile that lists your dependencies.
Documenting dependencies is a crucial aspect of web framework code reviews, ensuring transparency, maintainability, and a clear understanding of how different components or libraries interact within the system. Document all external libraries, frameworks, and modules utilized in the project. Specify the version numbers of each dependency to ensure consistency and compatibility. Explain the role and purpose of each dependency. Detail why it was chosen and how it contributes to the project. Identify and remove any dependencies that are no longer necessary or not being utilized in the codebase. Check whether dependencies are properly injected and managed, reducing tight coupling and improving testability and maintainability.
The fifth step is to communicate the dependencies that your web framework code introduces or changes. You should inform your code reviewers and collaborators about the dependencies that they need to install, update, or test to run your web application. You can use tools like pull requests, code comments, or chat messages to communicate your dependencies. For example, if you use Laravel, you can use composer or artisan to create a composer.json or composer.lock file that specifies your dependencies.
The final step is to update the dependencies that your web framework code maintains. You should keep your dependencies up to date with the latest versions, patches, or features that can improve the functionality, security, or performance of your web application. You can use tools like dependency bots, update notifications, or changelogs to update your dependencies. For example, if you use Angular, you can use npm or ng update to update your dependencies and migrate your code.
An additional step to consider here is finding appropriate replacements for dependencies that have been deprecated. Deprecated dependencies/packages must be removed or replaced as it’s not recommended to keep those as part of the project for the multiple risks associated with them.