What are the differences between using generic parameters and convention over configuration for linking Views and ViewModels

Using Generic Parameters

**Generic parameters involve explicitly defining the relationship between a View and its corresponding ViewModel using type parameters. This approach is often recommended because it provides clarity and flexibility in the code. By using generics, you can ensure that the correct ViewModel is associated with the View, reducing potential errors due to incorrect or missing type definitions.

For example, in frameworks like MvvmCross, you might define a View and ViewModel pair using generics to ensure they are correctly linked:

csharp
public class MyView : MvxView
{
    // Implementation
}

public class MyViewModel : MvxViewModel
{
    // Implementation
}

This method allows for strong typing and compile-time checks, making it easier to maintain and debug the application.

Convention Over Configuration

**Convention over configuration is an alternative approach where the framework automatically determines the ViewModel for a View based on naming conventions. For instance, if you have a `TipView`, the framework will look for a `TipViewModel` by default. This method simplifies the setup process by reducing the need for explicit configuration or generic parameters.

In frameworks like MvvmCross, this convention is used when generic parameters are not specified. It relies on the developer following specific naming conventions for Views and ViewModels, which can make the code more readable and easier to understand for those familiar with the conventions.

However, this approach can lead to issues if the naming conventions are not followed consistently. It also relies on the framework's ability to correctly infer the relationships, which might not always be the case, especially in complex applications.

Key Differences

- Explicitness: Generic parameters provide an explicit link between Views and ViewModels, ensuring clarity and reducing potential errors. Convention over configuration relies on implicit naming conventions, which can be less clear to new developers or in complex scenarios.

- Flexibility and Maintainability: Generic parameters offer more flexibility and maintainability because they allow for explicit type definitions and compile-time checks. Convention over configuration simplifies setup but may require more discipline in maintaining consistent naming conventions.

- Error Handling: With generic parameters, errors are typically caught at compile-time, while convention over configuration might lead to runtime errors if the conventions are not followed correctly.

In summary, generic parameters offer explicit control and compile-time safety, while convention over configuration simplifies setup but relies on consistent naming conventions. The choice between these methods depends on the project's complexity, the team's familiarity with the framework, and the desired level of explicitness in the code.