One Step at a Time: Demystifying the Batch API and Queue System

We continue to push the boundaries of what PHP was intended to do. Requesting a web page or clicking a button may trigger thousands of calculations, start a data migration, or kick off a long running process. So how do we avoid server timeouts and resource bottlenecks? By approaching this work one step at a time.

Join us for an introduction into Drupal's Batch API and Queue System, where we'll demystify these powerful tools and equip you with practical knowledge to conquer even the most daunting tasks. We will cover practical examples and discuss:

• How batching and queuing compare to concurrency and parallelism in software.
• Mechanics of using the Batch API within forms, controllers, and other application code.
• Patterns for using batching in Drush commands and as part of database updates.
• How queues and offload time consume tasks from the typical request cycle.
• Review examples and common scenarios for using these tools in your custom code.

From optimizing batch sizes to managing dependencies and handling failures gracefully, you'll learn how to make the most of these powerful tools in your Drupal projects. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just occasionally writing custom code, this session will empower you to conquer complex tasks and unlock new possibilities in your projects.