Starting a new project often means wrestling with repetitive tasks like setting up folders, writing boilerplate code, and configuring dependencies. But what if you could skip all the grunt work and dive straight into the fun parts? That’s where project scaffolding tools come in. From code generation to full project templates, these tools are a developer’s dream. Here are 12 tools to help you hit the ground running.
Python-Specific Tools
1. Cookiecutter
Cookiecutter is a go-to solution for Python developers. It generates project templates from pre-defined configurations, making it incredibly versatile. From Django apps to data science notebooks, Cookiecutter’s expansive community ensures there’s a template for almost any need.
2. Copier
Copier takes Cookiecutter’s concept further by enabling updates to already-generated projects when the template evolves. It’s a lifesaver if you frequently iterate on your project structure.
3. PyScaffold
PyScaffold is designed specifically for modern Python projects. It integrates seamlessly with tools like setuptools, tox, and pytest, ensuring your project starts with best practices baked in.
Language-Agnostic Tools
4. Yeoman
Yeoman is a robust scaffolding tool used widely in web development. Whether you’re building an Angular app, a React component, or even a CLI tool, Yeoman’s generators have you covered. It’s the Swiss Army knife of scaffolding tools.
5. Plop.js
Perfect for JavaScript and TypeScript projects, Plop.js is a micro-generator framework that’s ideal for repetitive tasks like creating components or configurations. Its simplicity makes it a favorite for frontend developers.
6. Hygen
Hygen is lightweight and fast. It’s particularly suited for automating repeatable patterns in your codebase, like generating new routes or services. Its developer-first design makes it highly customizable.
7. Spring Initializr
Spring Initializr is a web-based generator tailored for Java Spring Boot applications. With just a few clicks, you can configure dependencies, set up build files, and download a ready-to-use project structure. It’s a must for Java developers.
DevOps and Cloud Tools
8. Terraform Module Scaffolding Tools
For infrastructure-as-code (IaC) enthusiasts, tools like terraform-module-template or Resourcely Blueprints simplify creating reusable Terraform modules. They ensure your infrastructure adheres to best practices right out of the gate.
9. Pulumi Templates
Pulumi Templates bring scaffolding to the IaC world, supporting multiple programming languages. Whether you’re using Python, TypeScript, or Go, Pulumi makes spinning up infrastructure projects painless.
10. Helm Charts
Helm is considered the package manager for Kubernetes, but it doubles as a scaffolding tool for cloud-native applications. Helm Charts provide pre-defined templates for deploying and managing Kubernetes workloads with ease.
Meta-Tools and Framework-Specific Generators
11. Skaffold
Skaffold simplifies CI/CD pipelines for Kubernetes projects. It’s perfect for developers who need to scaffold a consistent deployment pipeline while iterating quickly on their applications.
12. Kustomize
Kustomize is another Kubernetes tool focused on declarative configurations. It scaffolds Kubernetes manifests with a clean way to manage overlays and variants, helping teams avoid messy YAML duplication.
Bonus: Framework Starter CLI Tools
Framework-specific CLI tools like Angular CLI, Create React App, Vue CLI, and Django’s startproject make setting up projects incredibly easy. These tools are optimized for their respective ecosystems, ensuring you start with a solid foundation.
Choosing the Right Tool
When selecting a scaffolding tool, consider your project’s specific needs:
- Language or Framework: Tools like PyScaffold or Spring Initializr are ideal for Python and Java, respectively.
- Automation Level: Copier and Hygen excel at streamlining updates and repetitive tasks.
- Cloud-Native Projects: Helm, Terraform, and Pulumi shine for DevOps and cloud applications.
With these tools in your arsenal, you can skip the boilerplate and focus on what really matters: building great software.
Why Resourcely Blueprints Stand Out
Resourcely Blueprints are the best scaffolding option for Terraform self-service templates because they streamline infrastructure deployment while ensuring compliance, security, and governance. By providing reusable, modular templates that follow best practices, Resourcely enables teams to deploy infrastructure faster without sacrificing quality or oversight. It simplifies self-service for developers while aligning with organizational standards, making it a game-changer for teams adopting Terraform at scale.
Create and publish your first Blueprint using our free plan and our Quickstart guide at https://docs.resourcely.io/get-started/quickstart
