D4 — PostSharp, a post-compiler for the .NET Framework

Abstract

This demonstration will present PostSharp Core, a general-purpose post-compiler for the .NET framework, and PostSharp Laos, a high-level aspect weaver built on the top of PostSharp Core.

PostSharp Core is an open platform for analysis and transformation of .NET programs after compilation. It is an interesting tool for researchers because it provides a robust solution for recurring problems encountered during development of code weavers, optimizers or static analyzers. Researchers can concentrate on original parts of their contributions (e.g. semantics) and are freed from infrastructure concerns (representation and manipulation of MSIL, low-level weaving, integration in the build process).

PostSharp Laos [Lightweight Aspect-Oriented Suite] is a pragmatic approach to AOP. It enables average developers to build aspects without the typical learning curve of AOP. Aspects are encapsulated as custom attributes (aka annotations in Java). Custom attributes are applied to target methods or classes either directly, either indirectly using wildcards. The interest of PostSharp Laos for researchers is double: (1) the approach and the solutions are original and (2) PostSharp Laos is an example of AOP engine built on PostSharp and could inspire researchers.