Learn how to apply a better design pattern for your code problem in this article. Find out how to identify, choose, plan, implement, and evaluate a new design pattern.

Planning the refactoring process is the third crucial step in adopting a new design pattern. Refactoring involves restructuring your code while preserving its existing behavior, enhancing code quality, & readying it for future modifications or additions. To execute this effectively, meticulous planning is essential. This plan should encompass the scope of changes, potential risks, and dependencies within your codebase. Be prepared to update your tests, comments, and documentation alongside the code to ensure it remains comprehensible and maintainable. By thoughtfully orchestrating the refactoring, you can seamlessly integrate the new design pattern into your codebase while mitigating potential pitfalls or disruptions.

How can you apply a design pattern after finding a better solution?

Design patterns are reusable solutions to common problems in software development. They help you write cleaner, more maintainable, and more scalable code. But what if you discover a better design pattern for your situation after you have already implemented one? How can you apply the new pattern without breaking your existing code or wasting too much time? In this article, you will learn some practical tips on how to refactor your code using a new design pattern.

1 Identify the problem

The first step is to identify the problem that you want to solve with the new design pattern. What are the drawbacks of the current pattern? How does it affect the quality, performance, or functionality of your code? What are the benefits of the new pattern? How does it address the problem or improve the situation? You should have a clear and specific goal for applying the new pattern, and a way to measure the results.

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Tin Truong

Product Innovation Specialist | EdTech
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Before diving into implementation, consider these questions: Does the "better solution" actually require a design pattern? Sometimes, a simpler approach, even without a pattern, might be more efficient and easier to maintain. Don't force-fit a pattern if it adds unnecessary complexity. Are the benefits of the pattern significant enough to justify the refactoring effort? Implementing a design pattern can be time-consuming and disruptive. Compare the potential gains with the cost of change before proceeding. Will the pattern negatively impact code readability or maintainability for the team? Some patterns can introduce abstraction that obscures the underlying logic, making future modifications challenging. Ensure the team agrees new ways.

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Naresh Kukkala ~ iOS Lead / Architect

21K Followers | iOS Developer Lead & Mentor | Mobile Architect | Trainer | Coach | Freelancer | Mock Interview
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Identifying & addressing problems in legacy code is a critical phase in software development lifecycle. It's akin to the detective work of the coding world, where you uncover hidden complexities and potential pitfalls. First & foremost, leveraging modern tools such as code analysis, metrics, & test coverage can provide valuable insights. However, it's not just about what tools reveal; it's also about what the original creators intended. Engaging with the original developers, users, or stakeholders is akin to interviewing witnesses in an investigation. End goal is twofold: to prioritize areas for improvement based on holistic understanding of the code & to implement changes that enhance code quality without jeopardizing system stability.

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2 Choose the right pattern

The next step is to choose the right design pattern for your problem. There are many design patterns available, and each one has its own purpose, advantages, and disadvantages. You should not use a design pattern just because it is popular or trendy, but because it fits your needs and context. You should also consider the trade-offs and implications of using a new pattern. For example, some patterns may increase the complexity, coupling, or dependencies of your code, while others may require more testing, documentation, or maintenance.

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3 Plan the refactoring

The third step is to plan the refactoring process. Refactoring is the act of changing the structure of your code without changing its behavior. It is a way to improve your code quality and readability, and to prepare it for new features or changes. You should plan how to refactor your code using the new design pattern in a systematic and safe way. You should also identify the scope, risks, and dependencies of the refactoring. For example, you may need to update your tests, comments, or documentation along with your code.

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Naresh Kukkala ~ iOS Lead / Architect

21K Followers | iOS Developer Lead & Mentor | Mobile Architect | Trainer | Coach | Freelancer | Mock Interview
Report contribution
Planning the refactoring process is the third crucial step in adopting a new design pattern. Refactoring involves restructuring your code while preserving its existing behavior, enhancing code quality, & readying it for future modifications or additions. To execute this effectively, meticulous planning is essential. This plan should encompass the scope of changes, potential risks, and dependencies within your codebase. Be prepared to update your tests, comments, and documentation alongside the code to ensure it remains comprehensible and maintainable. By thoughtfully orchestrating the refactoring, you can seamlessly integrate the new design pattern into your codebase while mitigating potential pitfalls or disruptions.

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4 Implement the pattern

The fourth step is to implement the new design pattern in your code. You should follow the principles and guidelines of the pattern, and use appropriate tools and techniques to refactor your code. You should also apply good coding practices, such as naming conventions, formatting, and comments. You should refactor your code in small and incremental steps, and test and verify each step along the way. You should also use version control and backup systems to keep track of your changes and revert them if needed.

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5 Evaluate the results

The final step is to evaluate the results of applying the new design pattern. You should compare your code before and after the refactoring, and see if it meets your goals and expectations. You should also measure the impact of the new pattern on your code quality, performance, or functionality. You should also check for any errors, bugs, or side effects that may have occurred during the refactoring. You should also solicit feedback from your peers, clients, or users on the new design and functionality of your code.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you apply a design pattern after finding a better solution?

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1 Identify the problem

2 Choose the right pattern

3 Plan the refactoring

4 Implement the pattern

5 Evaluate the results

6 Here’s what else to consider

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