Should I Use Interface Fields in Go, and What are the Alternatives and Considerations?

Go Interface Fields

In Go, interfaces define functionality rather than data. However, it is possible to simulate interface fields by utilizing embedded structs and the Get pattern. While this method provides a neat solution for defining data in interfaces, it has limitations and should be used cautiously.

Go Conventions and Data Exposure

Go conventions do not dictate the mandatory use of abstractions. Instead, it is recommended to consider the following approaches:

• Direct Attribute Access: Public attributes (embedded or not) can be utilized for data access, providing simplicity. However, later modifications may require significant refactoring.
• Methods: Exposing data through methods offers greater flexibility, allowing for future changes and the addition of setter/getter logic.

If the interface is used solely within the project and the data exposure seems unlikely to create issues, direct attribute access may be sufficient. If future compatibility or implementation changes are a concern, methods should be preferred.

Benefits of Getters and Setters

Hiding data behind getters/setters provides certain advantages:

• Compatibility: Backwards compatibility can be maintained during struct field alterations.
• Additional Logic: Logic can be applied around property updates, enhancing control.
• Data Source Abstraction: Complex data structures can be hidden behind interfaces, shielding users from implementation details.

Considerations

Using interface fields may introduce cyclic import dependencies due to explicit imports of packages defining the data type. However, data exposure through direct attribute access is generally accepted in the Go community, leaving the decision to the developer's discretion.

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