Book review: php|architect’s Guide to PHP Design Patterns

Design patterns are technology independent but the way of implementation can vary based on the programming language that is used. The book “php|architect’s Guide to PHP Design Patterns” by Jason Sweat presents some of the design patterns which might be helpful while implementing web applications in PHP 4 and 5. Additionally, it is a good reference to Test Driven Development methodology. Every design pattern described in the book is developed in an iterative way typical for Test Driven Development. Firstly, tests are written and later comes the simplest code which satisfies them. Once new requirements are defined more tests are written and the process repeats. The code undergoes constant refactoring. The book covers both PHP 4 and 5. The first one is currently outdated and seldom used and since PHP 5.3 and 6 are about to be released, the book will soon become outdated as well. However, PHP 4 techniques might be useful only in the case of old application maintenance or migration. Since the majority of examples are implemented in two versions of PHP, the advantages of PHP 5 are really visible. A programmer no longer has to use tricks to overcome the imperfections of object model in PHP 4. Undoubtedly, the upcoming PHP releases will offer even more, it’s hight time the author thought about updating his book. I recommend this book not only to programmers who want to learn more about the design patterns in PHP but also about the Test Driven approach. The ones who are already familiar with these subjects should wait for the updated version of book. It’s good to have it on the shelf for reference.