METAyml

METAyml is a lightweight and flexible metadata specification designed to provide structured information about software projects, particularly those using Perl. It is commonly used alongside Perl modules to describe their dependencies, licensing, and other relevant details in a standardized format. The specification is inspired by the broader YAML (YAML Ain't Markup Language) ecosystem, which is known for its human-readable and easy-to-parse syntax.

The primary purpose of METAyml is to serve as a configuration file that automates the installation and management of Perl modules. Unlike older alternatives like the traditional META file, METAyml leverages YAML for clarity and simplicity, making it easier to read and maintain. It typically resides in the root directory of a Perl distribution and contains key-value pairs that define metadata such as the module's name, version, author, dependencies, and build requirements.

A basic METAyml file includes essential fields like `name`, `version`, `author`, and `license`, while optional fields such as `requires` (for runtime dependencies), `recommends`, and `conflicts` provide additional context for module compatibility. The specification also supports dynamic metadata generation, allowing tools like Module::Build or ExtUtils::MakeMaker to populate the file automatically during the build process.

METAyml is widely adopted in the Perl ecosystem due to its simplicity and compatibility with tools like CPAN (Comprehensive Perl Archive Network), which relies on such metadata for package distribution and installation. While it shares similarities with other metadata formats like `package.json` in JavaScript or `setup.py` in Python, its focus remains on Perl-specific conventions and best practices. The specification continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern Perl development, ensuring compatibility with both legacy and contemporary tooling.