Re: [boost] [system][chrono] header-only libs

Subject: Re: [boost] [system][chrono] header-only libs
From: Stewart, Robert (Robert.Stewart_at_[hidden])
Date: 2011-01-06 16:32:12

Dean Michael Berris wrote:
> On Fri, Jan 7, 2011 at 4:37 AM, Stewart, Robert
> <Robert.Stewart_at_[hidden]> wrote:
>
> > Given that most Boost libraries are header only, it seems
> > as if those that provide an option to deviate from that norm,
> > should do so explicitly.  Thus, the name and behavior should
> > be reversed:  BOOST_XXXXX_AS_LIBRARY.
>
> Right, but unfortunately for Boost.System's case, the default usage
> has been as a library, therefore an option should be explicitly turned
> on to deviate from its default distribution/usage scenario.

I did consider that, and my suggestion would be an implicit change for Boost.System users, but the question is whether there's any real problem that would make the shift troublesome for most users.

Regardless of the Boost.System decision, all Boost libraries with such a build option should use the same approach.  It should not be the case that some libraries require active changes to build as a library while others require active steps to build header-only.

Since Boost.System is the only library in that situation -- at the moment, anyway -- Beman can choose as he sees fit, but defaulting to the expected norm for Boost libraries is ideal.

_____
Rob Stewart                           robert.stewart_at_[hidden]
Software Engineer, Core Software      using std::disclaimer;
Susquehanna International Group, LLP  http://www.sig.com

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