How do I start a new project with Duct?

Since the Leiningen template is deprecated, refer to the official website at duct-framework.org for modern usage and alternative setup methods, such as using templates or manual configuration.

Duct vs Luminus: which is better for Clojure web apps?

Duct offers a modular, component-based approach ideal for maintainable systems, while Luminus provides a more batteries-included framework with built-in features. Choose Duct for flexibility and Luminus for faster development with less configuration.

Does Duct support WebSockets or real-time applications?

Duct doesn't include built-in WebSocket support, but it can integrate with libraries like http-kit or aleph through its component system. You'll need to set up handlers and manage connections manually within the modular architecture.

How to handle database connections in Duct?

Use Integrant components to define database configurations and lifecycle, integrating libraries like next.jdbc or HugSQL. This allows for easy management, testing, and dependency injection across environments.

Can I use Duct with ClojureScript for the frontend?

Yes, Duct is server-side agnostic, so you can pair it with ClojureScript frontends using tools like shadow-cljs or Figwheel. However, you'll need to set up the build process and integration separately, as Duct doesn't provide built-in frontend tooling.

Is Duct still actively maintained?

The core framework is maintained, but note that some tooling like the Leiningen template is deprecated. Check the GitHub repository and website for updates, as community activity and modern practices may evolve.

Open-Awesome

Duct

MITClojure

A server-side application framework for Clojure built on Integrant.

GitHub

1.2k stars52 forks0 contributors

What is Duct?

Duct is a server-side application framework for Clojure that provides a structured approach to building web applications and services. It helps developers create maintainable systems by organizing code into reusable components with clear dependencies using Integrant for component management.

Target Audience

Clojure developers building web applications, APIs, or backend services who want a structured, component-based architecture for maintainable code.

Value Proposition

Developers choose Duct for its clean integration with Integrant, modular design that promotes code reuse, and production-ready approach to building scalable Clojure applications.

Overview

Server-side application framework for Clojure

Use Cases

Best For

Building maintainable web applications in Clojure
Creating RESTful APIs with component-based architecture
Developing microservices with clear dependency management
Projects requiring REPL-driven development workflows
Applications needing environment-specific configuration
Teams wanting structured Clojure application patterns

Not Ideal For

Projects requiring rapid prototyping with minimal configuration and boilerplate, where simpler frameworks like Compojure might suffice.
Teams that prefer convention-over-configuration approaches with integrated frontend tooling, as Duct focuses on server-side modularity.
Applications needing extensive real-time features or WebSockets out-of-the-box without additional library integration.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Integrant-Based Architecture

Leverages Integrant for clear component lifecycle and dependency management, making code reusable and easy to test, as highlighted in its key features.

Modular Design

Encourages building applications from small, focused components, promoting maintainability and code organization per the philosophy of simplicity and composability.

Configuration Flexibility

Supports external configuration with environment-specific overrides, simplifying deployment across different stages, a core feature for production readiness.

Development Tools

Includes tools for REPL-driven development and hot code reloading, enhancing developer productivity and workflow efficiency.

Cons

Deprecated Initial Setup

The Leiningen template is deprecated, complicating project initialization and potentially relying on outdated resources, as noted in the README.

Integrant Learning Curve

Requires familiarity with Integrant's component system, adding overhead for teams new to this pattern and increasing initial development time.

Limited Frontend Integration

Focused solely on server-side development, necessitating additional setup for frontend frameworks or real-time features, which might not suit full-stack projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

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