Skip to content

Instantly share code, notes, and snippets.

@wldeh

wldeh/GSoC-2023-Report.md

Created September 11, 2023 03:28
Download ZIP
Raw
GSoC-2023-Report.md

Google Summer of Code (GSoC) Work Report:
Enhancing the kotlinx-benchmark Library API and User Experience

Introduction & Project Overview:
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to work on a pivotal project under the Google Summer of Code umbrella, focusing on enhancing the kotlinx-benchmark library. An indispensable tool in the Kotlin ecosystem, this library aids in benchmarking multiplatform Kotlin code. However, it previously fell short in terms of user experience and lacked some key features. The prime objective of my project was to revitalize the user experience, augment the API capabilities, and prepare the library for productization.

Key Achievements & Contributions:

  1. Documentation for Accessibility:
    The absence of comprehensive documentation previously made kotlinx-benchmark challenging to grasp for many, especially newcomers. I spearheaded the construction of detailed documentation, ensuring that anyone, from novices to experts, could dive in, harness, and experiment with the library.

  2. Error Messaging & Feedback:
    A library's UX is significantly influenced by its error feedback. I revamped error messages, ensuring they are not only accurate but also instructive, guiding users towards solutions.

  3. Integration Tests & Reliability:
    Implemented rigorous integration tests, fortifying the library's stability across a multitude of scenarios.

  4. Tech Stack Modernization:
    Transitioned to the contemporary versions of Gradle and JMH and optimized the build scripts utilizing the most recent Kotlin DSL.

  5. Profiler Enhancement:
    Heeding user feedback, I streamlined profiler execution, enhancing user interaction fluidity.

Future Directions: What's Next? While the strides we've taken with kotlinx-benchmark have been significant, there are always paths to explore and horizons to expand. Here's a glimpse of what the future might hold for the library:

  1. Native Enhancements:
    Investigate the feasibility of adding memory usage profiling, enhancing Native benchmarks. Leverage kotlin.native.runtime, especially the Garbage Collection statistics, for richer data integration.

  2. Streamlined Project Setup:
    Potential refinements to simplify the initial setup process further. Rethink configuration option naming for even more intuitive use. A CLI might boost user efficiency in interacting with the library.

  3. Flexible Platform-Specific Options:
    Examine scopes like native, JVM, and JS for more precise option definitions. Address settings that could be commonly applied to platforms like JVM and Native.

Code & Contributions:

Invitation for Future Collaboration:
The foundation is robust, but evolution never halts. For those inspired to further this journey, here are some resources:

Connect & Collaborate:
As for me, the voyage doesn't end here. I'm thrilled about what the future holds. If you wish to discuss Kotlin, kotlinx-benchmark, or any intriguing tech topic:

Acknowledgments:
My heartfelt gratitude to Google Summer of Code, my mentor, and the entire Kotlin community for their unwavering support and mentorship.

Sign up for free to join this conversation on GitHub. Already have an account? Sign in to comment