When the Systems Team at Infotex first started developing using Microsoft .NET C#, we followed a Database-First approach. This involved building the database (tables, views, and stored procedures) first using SQL Server. Data Models were then generated in C# to map to the database tables. The database often contained most of the business logic that dictated how the application would work. However, this approach came with challenges. Any changes to the database tables would inevitably lead to breaking changes in the C# code, requiring additional time and effort to ensure synchronization between the database and application logic.
Over time, we realized that this method had several limitations. The reliance on the database for business logic made the system less flexible and more prone to errors during updates. It also hindered collaboration within teams, as database changes were not as easily tracked or managed compared to code changes. These challenges prompted us to look for a better way to develop and manage our applications.
In recent years, the Systems Team at Infotex has transitioned to a Code-First approach. With this method, we define C# classes, which are then used to create and manage the database schema. This paradigm shift has been transformative for our development process. Code-First development supports Domain-Driven Design (DDD), which moves the core application logic away from the database structure and into the C# classes that we write. This approach ensures that the application’s core functionality is defined within the codebase, making it easier to understand, modify, and maintain.
A critical tool that facilitates Code-First development is Entity Framework. This allows us to manage database schema migrations seamlessly. For example, when we need to add a new field or modify an existing one, Entity Framework enables us to define these changes within the code and apply them to the database with minimal friction. This level of control over how code maps to database tables empowers developers and improves overall efficiency.
Why Do Developers Now Favour Code-First Development?
- Agile Development: At Infotex, we follow Agile methodologies, and Code-First aligns perfectly with this approach. Agile development emphasizes iterative and incremental changes, and the flexibility of Code-First makes it easier to adapt the code during the development process. Changes can be made quickly and tested without worrying about the underlying database structure.
- Source Control Integration: Code-First development integrates seamlessly with Source Control systems like Git. Any changes to the underlying C# classes are tracked in our Source Control system, enabling us to maintain a clear history of modifications. This feature is invaluable for collaborative development, as team members can review changes, roll back updates if necessary, and maintain a synchronized workflow. In contrast, the Database-First approach made it much more challenging to track changes, as database updates were often disconnected from the codebase.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Code-First fosters better collaboration among developers by centralizing business logic within the codebase. This approach eliminates the need for constant communication about database changes and ensures that everyone on the team works with the same set of models and logic.
- Improved Maintainability: By moving the business logic into the C# code, Code-First development makes applications more maintainable in the long run. Changes to the application’s logic can be made within the codebase, reducing the risk of unintended consequences stemming from direct database modifications.
- Testability: Applications built using the Code-First approach are inherently more testable. With business logic encapsulated in the C# code, developers can write unit tests to validate functionality without depending on the database. This leads to faster development cycles and more robust applications.
- Reduced Dependency on the Database: Code-First reduces the dependency on the database for defining and maintaining application logic. This decoupling ensures that developers can focus on the application’s functionality without being tied down by the complexities of database management.
Challenges of Code-First Development
While Code-First development offers numerous advantages, it’s not without its challenges. For example, developers need to have a solid understanding of how Entity Framework maps C# classes to database tables. Mistakes in defining relationships or attributes in the code can lead to unexpected issues in the database schema. Additionally, teams transitioning from a Database-First approach may face a learning curve as they adapt to the new methodology.
