Python Packaging - Distutils for a program

Question

I understand distutils is the defacto standard for the module installation world, using the common

setup.py install

But what if I don't want to install my program as a module but instead as a program, that can be executed by the user?

If I'm not being clear I'm very sorry but feel free to ask more questions. Thanks!

• Mark E. Haase: I don't think the distutils manual adequately covers this use case. I found this reference which I think is much more informative: digitalocean.com/community/tutorials/….

Answer 1

I'd hope that you're structuring your code so that the bulk of it is modular and could be imported into other code. In that structure than your application is a wrapper between the program's command-line and/or other user interfaces and the functionality provided by your modules.

That said, here's a pointer to the relevant documentation on Installing Scripts.

• Fergus Barker: It's not so much as a script as a fully functioning PyGtk Program. I'd like to be able to for example make a .deb so it can be run like any other program.
• SingleNegationElimination: setuptools does not help you create packages, but having a package that is installed via setuptools will greatly relieve the burden on package mantainers. Have a look at another package that works in a similar way.
• Fergus Barker: Okay. I'll go get a similar program and have a look.
• Pavel Repin: @Fergus, do take a look at that "Installing Scripts" link above. This is it. If you want extra power, use setuptools (or better, its replacement - distribute). But first, try the standard library approach.

Answer 2

You mean as an .exe? Use cx_freeze or py2exe.

• Fergus Barker: I'm looking at for a Linux box rather than Windows.