REMOVE ake()

Problem Statement

The ake() helper function in Hazaar has been deprecated in favor of using PHP’s null coalescing operator (??). Additionally, its dot-notation access functionality has been moved to a new array_get() function. Since ake() is no longer needed, it should be completely removed from the framework. However, to provide developers with adequate transition time, this removal is scheduled for action in one year.

Who will benefit?

• Developers maintaining Hazaar-based applications by encouraging modern, native PHP practices.
• The Hazaar framework, by reducing legacy code and improving maintainability.
• Performance improvements by eliminating an unnecessary helper function.

Benefits and risks

Benefits

• Reduces technical debt by removing obsolete functionality.
• Encourages developers to use native PHP features.
• Simplifies the codebase and documentation.

Risks

• Breaking change for applications still relying on ake(), requiring updates before removal.
• Some developers may need to refactor their codebases ahead of the scheduled removal.

Proposed Solution

1. Announce the scheduled removal of ake() and provide clear migration guidance.
2. Update documentation to reflect the deprecation and recommended alternatives.
3. In one year, remove ake() from the framework entirely.

Priority/Severity

• High (This will bring a huge increase in performance/productivity/usability/legislative cover)
• Medium (This will bring a good increase in performance/productivity/usability)
• Low (anything else e.g., trivial, minor improvements)