In-Depth

AntiPatterns

• By William J. Brown, Raphael C. Malveau, Hays McCormick III , Thomas Mowbray
• June 19, 2001

Is a litterary form that describes a commonly occurring solution to a problem that generates decidedly negative consequences. The AntiPattern may be the result of a manager or developer not knowing any better, not having sufficient knowledge or experience in solving a particular type of problem, or having applied a perfectly good pattern in the wrong context. When properly documented, an AntiPattern describes a general form, the primary causes which led to the general form; symptoms describing how to recognize the general form; the consequences of the general form; and a refactored solution describing how to change the AntiPattern into a healthier situation.

AntiPatterns are a method for efficiently mapping a general situation to a specific class of solutions. The general form of the AntiPattern provides an easily identifiable template for the class of problems addressed by the AntiPattern. In addition, the symptoms associated with the problem are clearly stated, along with the typical underlying causes of the problem. Together, these template elements comprise a comprehensive case for the existence of a particular AntiPattern. This form reduces the most common mistake in using design patterns: applying a particular design pattern in the improper context.

AntiPatterns provide real-world experience in recognizing recurring problems in the software industry and provide a detailed remedy for the most common predicaments. AntiPatterns highlight the most common problems that face the software industry and provide the tools to enable you to recognize these problems and to determine their underlying causes. Furthermore, AntiPatterns present a detailed plan for reversing these underlying causes and implementing productive solutions. AntiPatterns effectively describe the measures that can be taken at several levels to improve the developing of applications, the designing of software systems, and the effective management of software projects. ,p>AntiPatterns provide a common vocabulary for identifying problems and discussing solutions. AntiPatterns, like their design pattern counterparts, define an industry vocabulary for the common defective processes and implementations within organizations. A higher-level vocabulary simplifies communication between software practitioners and enables concise description of higher-level concepts.

AntiPatterns support the holistic resolution of conflicts, utilizing organizational resources at several levels, where possible. AntiPatterns clearly articulate the collaboration between forces at several levels of management and development. Many problems in software are rooted in managerial and organizational levels, so attempts to discuss developmental and architectural patterns without taking into account forces at other levels would be incomplete.

AntiPatterns provide stress release in the form of shared misery for the most common pitfalls in the software industry. Often, in software development, it is much easier to recognize a defective situation than to implement a solution. In these cases, where the power to implement an Anti- Pattern solution is lacking, an individual subjected to the consequences of the Anti- Pattern forces can find solace in knowing that his or her dilemma is, in whole or part, shared by many others throughout the industry. In some such cases where the AntiPattern has severe consequences, the AntiPattern can also serve as a wake-up call for a victim to set his or her sights on other employment opportunities in the industry and to start preparing his or her resume.