Overview:

The CraterBuild app skeleton offers a fresh approach to developing Meteor applications, applying modern JavaScript practices while addressing some of the limitations that developers have faced with Isobuild. Launched in an era where more advanced tools have emerged, CraterBuild allows you to navigate through the complexities of Meteor’s ecosystem, particularly for those who find themselves stuck in legacy codebases. This experimental framework could prove invaluable for anyone looking to reinvigorate their project with updated technologies, although it does require a willingness to navigate some of the rough patches.

Given that CraterBuild primarily targets developers who are already familiar with React and are comfortable working under the hood, it presents a unique blend of features that enhance performance and flexibility. However, potential users should be prepared to deal with some quirks, as it does not seamlessly integrate with every Meteor package and will require hands-on troubleshooting at times.

Features:

• Fast Startup: Outperforms the traditional Meteor development mode, reducing waiting times when launching the application.
• Compatibility: Runs all server and client code outside Meteor’s control, without relying on Isobuild for your custom code.
• Modern Tooling: Utilizes Babel 6 with ES2015 and stage-1 presets, ensuring adherence to modern JavaScript standards.
• Webpack Integration: Leverages Webpack for client code bundling, offering developers more control over their build process.
• Express App Creation: Automatically generates HTML pages using server-side rendering with React, simplifying routing and structure.
• Smart Restart: Automatic server restarts enhance the development experience without sacrificing uptime during changes.
• Comprehensive Testing Setup: Includes built-in tests with Webdriver.io, Mocha, and Chai for robust integration testing.
• Docker Support: Comes with a customizable Dockerfile, making deployment and containerization straightforward.

This framework is not just a tool; it’s a bridge to modern development practices in the Meteor ecosystem.