Buildout Builder - An automated buildout configuration system.

    The buildout system has become an extremely useful tool for python developers and has become the de-facto way of deploying Plone configurations. For developers buildout allows sand-boxing of python packages, enabling a developer to experiment with different configurations without modifying the underlying python installation and as a distribution mechanism it is useful to manage and deploy multiple configurations of Plone sites for either development or production.

    A major drawback is that the underlying architecture relies on setup file based configuration, and can prove daunting to inexperienced users. In order to ease development, save time, and attract new developer's to the system I propose the development of the Buildout Builder. In it's most generic form the Buildout Builder will be a web-based graphical user interface to the buildout system and while in it's most refined form the Buildout Builder will provide pre-configured or user customizable buildout configurations of Plone.

    With automatically generated buildout configurations, users can deploy software in a few commands or less. The application will target experienced developers and non-technical users alike, aiming for ease of use while maintaining the granularity of the buildout system. The Buildout Builder will exist as a web-app written in Grok. With it's simplicity, power, and active development and user base, Grok should prove to be an excellent framework for quickly deploying a rugged, easy to maintain application. The Buildout Builder will facilitate Plone deployment and ease buildout development creating an influx of new users to both technologies.