Python Tips — Application Packaging Introduction

Python Application Packaging

In Python, packaging your project simplifies the sharing of your code with others and elevates your project to a first-class entity within a Python environment. By encapsulating metadata in a package, you define the minimum Python version and any dependent third-party packages.

This allows installers to validate the compatibility of the environment, facilitate the installation of any missing project dependencies, and update those not meeting the requirements. Consequently, an installed package maintains a clear connection to its associated environment. In contrast, a script executed from a working directory may inadvertently operate on an outdated Python version or an environment lacking all necessary dependencies.

As the above picture shown, the process begins with a Python project. The steps involve building a package from the project, resulting in an installable artifact that represents a specific point in your project’s development. Then the author uploads the package to a package index (also known as a package repository).