Patch Pulse: Devlog #1 - Get notified when new packages are released
Tags: nestjs, typescript, javascript, node
Published: 2023-10-20 17:12:37

Welcome aboard the _Patch Pulse_ journey, my latest side project that has captivated my inner coder. These devlogs aren't just about sharing my project (okay, a little bragging!), they're about keeping my spirits high and, hopefully, encouraging others to turn their ideas into reality. Ready to jump in? Here we go!

![Patch Pulse Logo](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/j4mfhu8amv382wyc0y98.png)

## What Exactly Is _Patch Pulse_?

In essence, _Patch Pulse_ is your digital lookout, an alert system that notifies you instantly when there’s a new version of the software packages you track.

![A screenshot showing a Patch Pulse notification in a Slack channel](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/lecswchj4zd7iwf6398b.png)

For now, _Patch Pulse_ starts life as a Slack bot focused on `npm` packages, shining a light in your chosen Slack channel whenever there's fresh release news for your tracked packages. But there's more on the horizon — I'm planning to branch out into additional chat services and coding environments.

![A screenshot showing a Patch Pulse message in a Slack channel about the bot being setup successfully](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/b97b0gum0qpwis2fbjj1.png)

Working as a Senior Engineer at SecuritEase, I've always needed to keep up with the newest updates in our `node_modules`. With our team relying on Slack, I thought, "Why not make a bot for this?" And that’s how _Patch Pulse_ sprang to life!

![A screenshot showing a Patch Pulse message in a Slack channel confirming that a new package is being tracked](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/l4sibmtno1ww93g5scw3.png)

## Envisioning _Patch Pulse_:

Since kickstarting this project, my head's been buzzing with potential.

Imagine _Patch Pulse_ not just limited to Slack but also offering updates via:

- Alerts on Discord
- Alerts on Microsoft Teams
- Email notifications
- Push notifications on mobile applications

And there’s more — I'm picturing a system where if you're up for it, you could use _Patch Pulse_ data to create your own custom alert tools.

While I’m at home in the JavaScript/TypeScript world, I'm eager to chart new waters. I've been thinking about diving into ecosystems like `PyPI`, `Go`, and `NuGet`, but I'm all for exploring even beyond these.

## The Near Future for _Patch Pulse_:

I’m not rushing _Patch Pulse_, but I do have goals set for the rest of 2023:

1. **Joining the Slack App Directory:** You can test the bot [here](https://slack.com/oauth/v2/authorize?client_id=180374136631.6017466448468&scope=chat:write,commands,incoming-webhook), but I’m shooting for an official spot on Slack's App Directory. I just need about 10 workspaces actively using it, then we can submit it for review!

2. **Moving Into Discord:** I’m on this, but I want to gather solid feedback from the Slack version first. So, expect updates!

3. **Growing a Community:** I’ve laid the groundwork with the [Patch Pulse Community Discord](https://discord.gg/kSXJMpXV), but it needs more voices and energy. If you're passionate about nurturing online communities, I’d love your insights or collaboration!

4. **Adding More Ecosystems:** I’m all ears for what ecosystems you’d like integrated next. `PyPI` is currently top of my list.

5. **Continuing This Story:** Consider this post the first chapter of the _Patch Pulse_ narrative. There’s more to come, including deep dives into features, development stories, and yes, some tech-heavy showcases.

## Closing Comments

This project is pushing me beyond my usual frontend focused boundaries, and I’m loving every new challenge it brings! 

Keen to get _Patch Pulse_ in your Slack workspace? Join the journey [here](https://slack.com/oauth/v2/authorize?client_id=180374136631.6017466448468&scope=chat:write,commands,incoming-webhook)!

Feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, or suggestions by leaving a comment below! I want to know which of these potential features excites you the most?

Thank you for sharing in this adventure with me; your support means the world!