Intellij - Convert a Java project/module into a Maven project/module

Delving deep into the Maven conversion

The switch from a conventional Java project to Maven might seem daunting, but it will enforce organized project structure and dependency management. The key steps and elements involved in the process include:

Standardise to Maven project structure

After Maven conversion, verify that your project structure aligns with the Maven Standard Directory Layout. If not, relocate source folders and resources accordingly. IntelliJ version 13 onward usually takes care of this, but a manual check can be beneficial.

Correcting pom.xml and source repository elements

The conversion might miss source repository elements as part of Maven integration. Should you come across such gaps, manually modify your pom.xml file to include them.

Tailoring pom.xml for project specifics

Review the generated pom.xml file. Customize it based on your project's dependencies, build plugins, properties, and Java language version to avoid potential conflicts with your IDE and developer tools.

Potential surprise attacks

Prepare yourself for potential side effects, especially when you're dealing with large projects. Project settings and dependencies might need your attention and modifications post-conversion.

Navigating the Maven-ized IntelliJ project

Once you've converted your project to Maven, IntelliJ provides robust tools to smoothly navigate and manage your project.

Comprehending the 'Maven projects' tab

The 'Maven Projects' tab offers a high-level overview of your project structure, dependencies, and plugins. Moreover, you can directly trigger Maven goals from this tab.

Importing existing pom.xml files

If you are working with an existing pom.xml, use the "Add Maven Projects" feature in the tab mentioned earlier. It allows your project to sync with IntelliJ's Maven integration.

Review and rectify

Double-check the conversion was successful by looking for project goals under the Maven tab. Finally, tweak the annotation processor, compiler configurations, and other settings as needed.

Taking a few more steps

Make use of IntelliJ's smarts

IntelliJ's code assistance and inspection tools can now work in sync with Maven. Use these features to resolve dependencies and detect potential problems early.

Dealing with transitive dependencies

Learn how to manage transitive dependencies that Maven imports. If any of them interferes with your project, you can exclude them in the pom.xml:

<dependency>
    <groupId>com.example</groupId>
    <artifactId>example-lib</artifactId>
    <version>1.0</version>
    <exclusions>
        <exclusion>
            <groupId>com.example.other</groupId>  <!-- No one can force you to use a lib! -->
            <artifactId>unwanted-lib</artifactId>  <!-- Especially not the unwanted ones. -->
        </exclusion>
    </exclusions>
</dependency>
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Tune in with the build cycle

Leverage Maven's profiling feature to create distinct build profiles for various environments or use cases to streamline your project pipeline.

Resource scanning - Friend or Foe?

Make sure IntelliJ's resource scanning settings are correctly configured to avoid performance slowdowns. Especially for large projects, recursive scanning can turn costly and lead to latency.

You're not alone - Use a visual guide

When you feel lost or confused, turn towards updated visual guides available online. These can assist you in comprehending the Maven conversion in IntelliJ and make complex configurations feel like a breeze.