(GlobalCpp) Refactoring C++ Today

Refactoring is a part of the job, but rarely the part that excites us. In C++, where complex template metaprogramming, subtle object lifetimes, and strict performance requirements reign, modifying legacy codebases can feel like navigating a minefield. While modern tooling and AI promise to relieve this burden, separating practical capability from industry buzz is critical.

This session takes a pragmatic look at the full spectrum of modern C++ refactoring tools, through the lens of an actual 7-month-long refactoring case study. From command-line basics like grep and sed, to compiler-driven AST analyzers, to LLMs. We will map out when lightweight text manipulation is enough, where structural AST awareness is non-negotiable, and where AI fits in. We'll also evaluate the trade-offs across the entire toolchain, balancing execution speed, reliability, and cost.

My favorite version of this talk is the one where you interrupt with questions.

About the Presenter

Andy Soffer is a lapsed mathematician turned software engineer, passionate about code health and maintenance. He spent eight years at Google where he led the team responsible for maintaining Abseil, GoogleTest, and the internal C++ refactoring tools. In late 2024, he founded BrontoSource, with the goal of sharing effective automated refactoring techniques with the broader C++ community.