Organize Ant build scripts using a modular approach, separating tasks into individual targets with clear dependencies. Place common properties and tasks in separate files for easy reuse across projects.
Adopt a consistent naming convention for targets, properties, and file names. Use lowercase letters, hyphens, or underscores to separate words. For example, use “compile-java” instead of “CompileJava.”
Structure the project directory as follows:
– src: contains source code
– lib: holds third-party libraries
– build: stores compiled classes and artifacts
– dist: contains distributable packages
For code reuse, create a shared library of custom tasks and macros. Store these in a central repository accessible by all projects. Import them using the task.
Use property files to externalize configuration settings, such as version numbers and environment-specific values. Load these files using the task.
Leverage built-in Ant tasks whenever possible, avoiding reinventing the wheel. If necessary, extend existing tasks or write custom ones.
