Abstract
Our goal is to guide participants from a solid theoretical foundation to more advanced patterns such as Federation and the Strangler Pattern.
We will use a Test-Driven Learning approach: participants will work on a dedicated repository where each branch represents a challenge, and specific tests must pass before they can progress to the next concept.
Workshop Program (6h)
1. Theory & Setup (1h)
• GraphQL Foundations: A slide-based introduction to GraphQL, its ecosystem, and why Rust is an ideal choice for performance and safety.
• Repo Overview: Introduction to the tech stack we’ll use: Axum for the HTTP layer, SQLx for database interactions, and async-graphql.
2. Hands-on: Core Rust GraphQL (2.5h)
Using our “workshop runner” and the branch-based TDD approach, we will explore:
• Simple Objects vs. Complex Objects
• Mutations and Subscriptions
• Interfaces and Unions
3. Federation (2.5h)
• Federation Theory: Understanding the architecture of distributed subgraphs.
• Local Merging: Hands-on exercise merging three distinct microservices using a local router.
• The Strangler Pattern: A practical demonstration of how to strangle a subgraph using feature flags and Wundergraph control plane.
4. Bonus: Deep Dives (Optional / Advanced) (15–30 min)
If the class pace allows, we have prepared extra modules:
• Performance Optimization: Solving the N+1 problem with DataLoaders.
• Type-safe Clients: How to consume the API in Rust using Cynic for a fully type-safe experience.
