What are the best practices for implementing factory methods?

What are the best practices for implementing factory methods?

Factory methods are design patterns that allow for the creation of objects without specifying the exact class of the object. Best practices include: 1. Use a common interface for products. 2. Keep the factory method simple and focused. 3. Leverage inheritance to extend functionality. 4. Ensure that the factory method is easy to test.

Can you give an example of a factory method in action?

Sure! For instance, consider a ShapeFactory that creates different shapes like circles and squares. The factory method createShape(String shapeType) takes a string and returns an instance of the requested shape without exposing the instantiation logic.

What are the advantages of using factory methods?

The advantages include improved code maintainability, easier testing, and the ability to introduce new types of products without modifying existing code.

Are there any common pitfalls to avoid?

Yes, common pitfalls include overcomplicating the factory method, not adhering to the single responsibility principle, and failing to document the factory's behavior.