What are the best practices for implementing factory patterns in software design?

What are the best practices for implementing factory patterns in software design?

Some best practices include keeping the factory interface simple, using abstract classes, and ensuring single responsibility.

Can you explain why using abstract classes is important in this context?

Using abstract classes allows for flexibility and easier maintenance, as you can change implementations without affecting clients.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using factory patterns?

Common mistakes include overcomplicating the factory, not adhering to the single responsibility principle, and neglecting to document the design.

How do factory patterns compare to other design patterns?

Factory patterns focus on object creation, while other patterns like Singleton or Observer address different concerns like state management or event handling.