Writing Perl Modules for CPAN offers Perl developers a comprehensive guide to using and contributing to the Comprehensive Perl Archive Network (CPAN). Starting with a general overview of CPAN's history, network topology, and navigational mechanisms, readers are quickly brought up to speed regarding how to search out and install available modules. However, in the true Open Source spirit, author and experienced Perl developer Sam Tregar teaches readers not only how to use CPAN, but also how to contribute to it via a discussion of module creation, submission, and maintenance. Beginning with a survey of basic design principles, Tregar takes care to discuss all issues relevant to coders wishing to create great Perl modules, including choosing a proper name, properly using Perl's POD (Plain Old Documentation) feature, concepts surrounding functional and Object-Oriented API development, and much more. Tregar then proceeds with a lengthy discussion of how modules should conform to CPAN module specifications, covering required distribution files, coding considerations, in addition to offering advice regarding proper module testing. The module now created and ready for release, Tregar guides readers through the CPAN module submission process, and additionally devotes time to the discussion of module maintenance once the module has been contributed to the CPAN service. "Writing Perl Modules for CPAN" is an indispensable guide for anyone wishing to make the most of the CPAN service.
