Open Source Startup Podcast
E120: Building Better Python Tooling
Jan 4, 2024
Charlie Marsh, Founder & CEO of Astral, builders of next-gen python tooling, talks about their journey in developing a Python linter and code formatter written in Rust. They discuss the impact of building with Rust, developing deep relationships with their community, and their plans for expanding their Python tooling. They also share insights and advice for open source founders.
42:26
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Quick takeaways
- The idea for Ruff, the first tool in the Astral toolchain, came from the observation that existing Python tooling struggled to keep up with their codebase's scale, and the potential to leverage Rust in a Python codebase.
- Constant feedback and engagement with users is essential for building a supportive community and strong relationships, leading to the development of a unified Python toolchain that goes beyond just a linter or a formatter.
Deep dives
Founding Story for Astral and Ruff
Charlie, the founder of Astral, shares the founding story for Astral and Ruff. He explains that the idea for Ruff, the first tool in the Astral toolchain, came from three observations. First, existing Python tooling struggled to keep up with their codebase's scale. Second, he saw the potential to leverage Rust in a Python codebase. And third, he noticed the trend of web tooling being written in languages other than JavaScript. Charlie's initial intention was to explore starting a company, but he found himself continually drawn to working on developer tools, leading to the development of Ruff as a side project.
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