Challenges of Processing Data Clumps within Plugin Architectures of Integrated Development Environment

TL;DR

This paper presents a novel command-line plugin for IDEs that detects and refactors data clumps, a type of code smell, using modular algorithms to improve software quality and workflow efficiency.

Contribution

It introduces a new method that separates data clump detection from source access, enabling better refactoring support within IDEs.

Findings

Effective detection and refactoring of data clumps demonstrated

Modular algorithms enhance processing efficiency

Integration into workflows improves code quality

Abstract

In this study, we explore advanced strategies for enhancing software quality by detecting and refactoring data clumps, special types of code smells. Our approach transcends the capabilities of integrated development environments, utilizing a novel method that separates the detection of data clumps from the source access. This method facilitates data clump processing. We introduce a command-line interface plugin to support this novel method of processing data clumps. This research highlights the efficacy of modularized algorithms and advocates their integration into continuous workflows, promising enhanced code quality and efficient project management across various programming and integrated development environments.