When should you prefer PSGI/Plack, and when should you avoid it?

PSGI/Plack is a Perl web application architecture that offers great advantages in terms of flexibility and modularity. However, it's not always the best solution for every scenario. This article explores when to prefer PSGI/Plack and when to avoid it.
PSGI, Plack, Perl web framework, web application architecture, middleware, flexibility, modularity

### When to Prefer PSGI/Plack:

  • Modularity: If you need a system that allows you to use middleware components interchangeably with minimal configuration, PSGI/Plack is a great choice.
  • Integration: It provides seamless integration with various web servers and the ability to run on different platforms.
  • Testing: PSGI/Plack offers an easy way to set up tests and mock servers, which is beneficial during the development process.
  • Rich Ecosystem: Use PSGI/Plack if you want to take advantage of a rich ecosystem of libraries and middleware for various functionalities.

### When to Avoid PSGI/Plack:

  • Simple Applications: If you are building a simple application with minimal requirements, using PSGI/Plack might add unnecessary complexity.
  • Performance Constraints: In situations where performance is critical, and every millisecond matters, lighter frameworks or raw CGI might be preferred.
  • Steep Learning Curve: For beginners or teams unfamiliar with PSGI/Plack, the learning curve might slow down development.

# Example of a simple PSGI application
my $app = sub {
    my $env = shift;
    return [200, ['Content-Type' => 'text/plain'], ["Hello, PSGI World!"]];
};

# To run the app with Plack
# plackup -r script.psgi
    

PSGI Plack Perl web framework web application architecture middleware flexibility modularity