One of the problems with dependency checking is dealing with a module that optionally uses other modules. For instance a module might have drivers for a bunch of different backends, each of which is optional. For instance, CGI::Session or Class::DBI::Loader.
Such a relationship, even though not technically a dependency, is still really the same level of endorsement for the other module. This kind of relationship is common in plugin-based systems, where features will be used if they are available, but ignored if they are not. So plugins may be widely used in other CPAN modules but not actually listed in anyone's prerequisites. I think the correct way to deal with this is to use 'recommends' in Build.PL. I don't know if CPANTS includes the 'recommends' data, but it probably should. I also don't know if there's a MakeMaker equivalent. I doubt that most modules list their optional dependencies, but that's probably not a big deal. If someone uses my module but doesn't list it in recommends, and I want my prereq point, then I'll bug them to add it. Michael --- Michael Graham <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
