Portable Tools - Cross-Device Development Methodology

Methodology for building tools that work across different devices, naming schemes, and configurations. Based on lessons from OAuth refresher debugging session (2026-01-23).

Core Principle

Never assume your device is the only device.

Your local setup is just one of many possible configurations. Build for the general case, not the specific instance.

The Three Questions (Before Writing Code)

1. "What varies between devices?"

Before writing any code that reads configuration, data, or credentials: