What are the benefits of using factory patterns in software design?

What are the benefits of using factory patterns in software design?

Factory patterns provide a way to create objects without specifying the exact class of object that will be created. This promotes loose coupling and enhances code maintainability.

Can you explain how it improves code maintainability?

By using factory patterns, you can change the implementation of the object creation process without affecting the client code. This means that if you need to modify or extend your code, you can do so with minimal impact.

Are there different types of factory patterns?

Yes, there are several types, including the Simple Factory, Factory Method, and Abstract Factory patterns, each serving different use cases.

When should I use a factory pattern instead of a constructor?

Use a factory pattern when you need to create objects that may belong to different classes or when the creation process is complex. It provides more flexibility than a simple constructor.