How to structure a DDD project in .NET?

This project uses screaming architecture with solution folders mapped to bounded contexts and separate projects for architectural layers, as shown in the Sales and Contacts bounded contexts. Refer to the Projects and namespaces conventions documentation for specific guidelines on organizing code.

Hexagonal Architecture or CRUD for .NET DDD?

The project compares both: Hexagonal Architecture is best for deep models with high complexity, while CRUD suits simpler parts, and it shows how to combine them in the Sales bounded context. Check the Combining DDD and CRUD section for examples and when to use each approach.

What's the best way to persist DDD aggregates in SQL?

It demonstrates four persistence strategies: Entity Framework, raw SQL, document storage with Marten, and Event Sourcing with Marten, each with code examples like OrderSqlRepository classes. The choice depends on factors like complexity and scalability needs.

How to handle domain events in a .NET DDD app?

Implements transactional outbox and post-commit event publishing patterns, with abstractions like TransactionalOutbox and decorators for use cases. The code examples show how to emit events from aggregates and integrate with message brokers.

Is event sourcing worth it for DDD in .NET?

The project includes an Event Sourcing example using Marten but cautions against over-engineering in the disclaimer, advising to use it only with proper reflection. It's shown as one option among others, highlighting trade-offs in complexity.

How to test DDD domain models in C#?

Provides testing examples for Value Objects like Money and integration tests for repositories, using tools like the BDD toolkit from the authors. The Testing domain model section links to specific test files and methodologies.

Open-Awesome

DDD-starter-dotnet

MITC#

A sample implementation and comparison of various DDD approaches in .NET to quickly start domain-driven design projects.

GitHub

405 stars32 forks0 contributors

What is DDD-starter-dotnet?

DDD Starter for .NET is a reference implementation and educational resource that demonstrates various approaches to building domain-driven design applications in the .NET ecosystem. It provides sample code, comparisons, and guidelines for implementing DDD patterns like Aggregates, Value Objects, Hexagonal Architecture, CQRS, and Event Sourcing. The project helps developers make informed architectural decisions and quickly bootstrap DDD-oriented projects.

Target Audience

.NET developers and architects who are implementing or learning domain-driven design patterns and need practical examples and guidance on architectural choices. Teams starting new DDD projects who want to avoid over-engineering while applying appropriate patterns.

Value Proposition

It offers a unique comparison of multiple implementation styles for the same requirements, helping developers understand trade-offs between different DDD approaches. Unlike single-pattern tutorials, it provides a holistic view of how various DDD techniques work together in real-world scenarios.

Overview

Sample implementation and comparison of various approaches to building DDD applications. Useful as a baseline to quickly start a DDD dot net project.

Use Cases

Best For

Learning DDD implementation patterns in .NET
Comparing different persistence strategies for aggregates
Understanding when to use Hexagonal Architecture vs simpler approaches
Starting new DDD projects with proven patterns
Implementing event publishing with outbox patterns
Combining DDD deep models with CRUD operations in the same bounded context

Not Ideal For

Teams building simple CRUD applications without complex business logic or domain rules
Developers seeking a production-ready, opinionated framework with minimal configuration and setup
Projects requiring comprehensive, self-contained documentation without reliance on external blog posts

Pros & Cons

Pros

Comparative Implementation Styles

Shows multiple approaches to implementing DDD patterns like Aggregates with Entity Framework, raw SQL, Marten, and Event Sourcing, as detailed in the Persistence of Aggregates section, helping developers evaluate trade-offs.

Practical Code Examples

Provides ready-made solutions for event publishing patterns, such as transactional outbox and post-commit, with concrete classes like TransactionalOutbox and NonTransactionalOutbox, facilitating real-world adoption.

Modular and Clear Structure

Uses screaming architecture principles to organize solution folders by business domains and architectural layers, as explained in the Screaming architecture section, enhancing code readability and maintainability.

Testing Guidance

Includes examples of testing domain models (e.g., Money Value Object tests) and integration tests for repositories, offering practical insights into DDD testing strategies.

Cons

Incomplete Domain Modeling

The README explicitly states it is 'not an illustration of domain exploration or modeling process,' focusing solely on implementation patterns without teaching DDD fundamentals, which may leave beginners confused.

External Documentation Dependence

Key explanations are linked to external blog posts, some of which are in Polish (marked [PL]), making it less accessible for English-only developers and fragmenting the learning experience.

No Bootstrapping Tool

While it offers code snippets and comparisons, it lacks a ready-to-use template or CLI tool for quickly scaffolding projects, requiring manual adaptation and increasing initial setup time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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