So, I managed to set up my first replication repository using Nix (made possible by {rix}).
Some thoughts:
- I used to use Docker in my repositories to facilitate replicating the computing environment. In comparison, Nix feels easier. "Download the folder, unzip, nix-build, nix-shell, Rscript main.R" feels incredibly cool and straightforward.
- {rix} is what made this possible. Otherwise, I would have stayed with Docker, because I would argue learning to write Dockerfiles is objectively easier than Nix commands. @brodriguesco rocks.
- I have serious concerns about the impact of using Nix in terms of scaring people off. Especially because while it is argued Nix works on Windows, working on Windows through WSL is *not* working on Windows for most applied researchers.
- I am not completely satisfied on how this repo turned out in the end and will maybe revisit it at some point. This is mostly because I had a lot of trouble using {reticulate} in a Nix setting (apparently a know issue with $PYTHONPATH) and had to resort to having a setup step downloading miniconda for the replicator, which sort of defeats the purpose of Nix.
- On the other hand, I do not like reticulate anyhow and would usually work in Python directly. Sadly, there is no {rix} for uv ;).
- I am looking forward to my first Docker container using Nix soon ;).
#rstats #OpenScience #replication
https://fediscience.org/@mario_angst_sci/114042896746443497