I would say the biggest frustration with elixir scripts is you can’t use libraries in a naked .exs file. I wish there were some middle ground where we don’t have python global package/venv/conda hell, but you could still ship a script pinned to some version of a useful library (like Jason or Toml or Finch/Mojito), and you don’t have to go all the way to setting up a project with an escript
ityonemo
josevalim
Creator of Elixir
Here is my summary:
-
Are you making a CLI tool for Elixir developers only? If yes:
a. Do you want to extend Mix (like mix phx.new)? If so, usemix archive
b. Otherwise, usemix escript -
Otherwise, don’t use Elixir (for all the reasons mentioned above and for the same reasons I wouldn’t use ruby, python, java, etc)
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crova
You should take a look at GitHub - doawoo/teex: Use Elixir like a scripting language, across your system · GitHub @ityonemo, it helps with your points.
0
markmark206
Does the introduction of Mix.install() in 1.12 change your recommendation?
PS Thank you for creating this awesome language. ; )
0
josevalim
Creator of Elixir
I wouldn’t say so. Mix install is great for one-off scripts, notebooks, etc. I wouldn’t build a CLI app with that. 
1