Question 1

How do I create a Slack bot with Botkit?

Accepted Answer

Use the Yeoman generator ('generator-botkit') to scaffold a project, then configure the Slack adapter with your bot token and define conversation handlers in TypeScript or JavaScript. The README links to platform-specific docs for detailed steps.

Question 2

Botkit or Microsoft Bot Framework: which should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Botkit is part of the Microsoft Bot Framework ecosystem, offering a more open-source, modular approach with specific adapters. Choose Botkit if you prefer flexibility and self-hosting; use the full Microsoft framework for deeper Azure integration and managed services.

Question 3

Does Botkit work with Discord?

Accepted Answer

No, Botkit does not have a built-in adapter for Discord based on the listed packages. You would need to develop a custom adapter or use a third-party solution, which adds complexity compared to supported platforms like Slack.

Question 4

Can I use Botkit for a Facebook Messenger bot without hosting it myself?

Accepted Answer

Botkit requires self-hosting or deployment to a server, as it's a framework, not a managed service. You'll need to set up a webhook and handle server infrastructure, unlike no-code platforms that handle hosting automatically.

Question 5

What are the performance considerations for scaling Botkit bots?

Accepted Answer

Scaling depends on your server infrastructure and adapter configurations. Botkit's modular design allows for horizontal scaling, but you must manage state persistence and platform rate limits, which aren't abstracted away by the framework.

Question 6

How to add custom middleware in Botkit?

Accepted Answer

Use the extensible core library to define middleware functions that intercept messages before handlers. The documentation provides examples for modifying conversation flow, but it requires familiarity with Botkit's event system and TypeScript/JavaScript.

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