Buildtoml

buildtoml is a simple and lightweight configuration file format designed to simplify the process of defining build configurations for software projects. Inspired by the popularity of TOML (Tom's Obvious, Minimal Language), buildtoml aims to provide a structured yet human-readable way to specify build parameters, dependencies, and workflows without the complexity of more verbose formats like YAML or JSON.

The format is intended for use in build systems, package managers, or CI/CD pipelines where clarity and ease of use are important. A buildtoml file typically contains key-value pairs, lists, and nested structures to define build targets, compiler settings, and other metadata. Unlike TOML, buildtoml may introduce domain-specific extensions tailored for build automation, such as explicit support for version constraints, environment variables, or build step sequencing.

One of the key advantages of buildtoml is its minimalism, avoiding unnecessary features that could complicate parsing or increase file size. It is often used alongside other tools or integrated into build scripts to streamline repetitive tasks. While not as widely adopted as TOML, buildtoml has gained traction in niche communities where build configuration needs are straightforward but require a clean syntax.

The format is typically parsed by custom scripts or build tools that interpret its directives. Since it lacks standardized tooling compared to TOML, its adoption remains limited to specific projects or ecosystems. Developers using buildtoml often appreciate its simplicity, though its lack of broad industry support means it may not be suitable for large-scale or cross-platform projects without additional abstraction layers.

For those interested in exploring buildtoml, sample files and documentation are usually provided by the project or toolchain it supports. Its design philosophy emphasizes readability and maintainability, making it a viable option for developers seeking a lightweight alternative to more complex build configuration systems.