A framework for writing trigger-action todo comments in executable format

摘要: Natural language elements, e.g., todo comments, are frequently used to communicate among developers and describe tasks that need be performed (actions) when specific conditions hold on artifacts related the code repository (triggers), from Apache Struts project: “remove expectedJDK15 if() after switching Java 1.6”. As projects evolve, development processes change, teams reorganize, these because of their informal nature, become irrelevant or forgotten. We present first framework, dubbed TrigIt, specify trigger-action comments in executable format. Thus, actions executed automatically triggers evaluate true. TrigIt specifications written host (e.g., Java) evaluated as part build process. The specified query statements over abstract syntax trees, representation configuration scripts, issue tracking systems, system clock time. either notifications transformation steps. implemented for programming migrated 44 existing several popular open-source projects. Evaluation via a user study, showed users find easy learn use. has potential enforce more discipline writing maintaining large repositories.