IT:AD:Patterns:Builder
Summary
Builders focus on constructing and configuring complex aggregate objects.
Notes
Designs often start simply, only needing a Factory, and evolve towards an Abstract Factory, IT:AD:Patterns:Prototype or IT:AD:Patterns:Builder as the developer discovers where more flexibiility is required.
Builders are good candidates for a fluent interface.
Builder focuses on constructing a complex object step by step. Abstract Factory emphasizes a family of product objects (either simple or complex). Builder returns the product as a final step, but as far as the Abstract Factory is concerned, the product gets returned immediately. Builder often builds a Composite.