How to Create an Empty Multi-Module Maven Project

What is the best way to create an empty multi-module Maven project?

Creating an empty multi-module Maven project can be achieved through a more streamlined method compared to using deprecated `archetype:create`. This guide will walk you through the steps required to initiate a multi-module setup in Maven, focusing on best practices and avoiding deprecated methods.

<project xmlns="http://maven.apache.org/POM/4.0.0"\n         xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance"\n         xsi:schemaLocation="http://maven.apache.org/POM/4.0.0 http://maven.apache.org/xsd/maven-4.0.0.xsd">\n\n    <modelVersion>4.0.0</modelVersion>\n    <groupId>com.example</groupId>\n    <artifactId>parent-project</artifactId>\n    <version>1.0-SNAPSHOT</version>\n    <packaging>pom</packaging>\n\n    <modules>\n        <module>module1</module>\n        <module>module2</module>\n    </modules>\n\n</project>

Causes

• Using deprecated commands such as `archetype:create`, which can lead to breaking changes and inconsistencies in project structure.

Solutions

• Create the parent project manually with a `pom.xml` file.
• Add individual module directories and their respective `pom.xml` files.
• Use Maven's `modules` section in the parent POM to define submodules.

Mistake: Neglecting to set the packaging type in the parent `pom.xml` to 'pom'.

Solution: Ensure that the `<packaging>pom</packaging>` declaration exists in your parent `pom.xml`.

Mistake: Forgetting to update the `modules` section after adding new submodules.

Solution: Always update the `modules` section to include any new submodules you create.