makeT

makeT is a cross-platform build automation tool designed to define and execute task templates for software projects. It combines the familiar concept of target-based builds with a templating system that promotes reuse across projects. The name suggests template-driven make.

At its core, makeT treats each task as a template that can be parameterized and composed with other templates. Dependencies form a directed acyclic graph used to determine execution order. Templates can be expanded across different projects, enabling consistent workflows while allowing project-specific customization.

Configuration is stored in a file named MakeTfile (or MakeT.yml) that records templates, variables, and libraries. Templates declare a name, a list of prerequisites, and a sequence of commands or sub-template calls. Variables use the syntax ${VAR}. Libraries host common templates such as compile, test, and package.

Execution proceeds by constructing the dependency graph, checking file changes via timestamps or checksums, and performing steps in a possibly parallel fashion. The engine supports a dry-run mode, incremental rebuilds, and robust error reporting to aid debugging.

In practice, a project might define a build template that depends on lint and unit-test templates and then a compile template. Invoking makeT with a command like makeT build resolves dependencies, expands templates, and runs the declared steps. Templates can be imported from libraries or overridden in project scope.

Origin and status: makeT is an experimental concept with multiple independent implementations and no single standard. It remains primarily in research or demonstration contexts, offering an alternative to traditional build systems by emphasizing reusable templates. The concept mirrors existing tools like Make, CMake, and Ninja, but emphasizes template-based reuse across projects.