These packages implement AWS-specific code generation plugins to the python generator. Anything that is specific to AWS MUST be implemented here. Examples include most AWS protocols(*), SigV4, and AWS service customizations. Conversely, any features that are NOT specific to AWS MUST NOT be implemented here.

*The only exception to this rule is the RestJson1 protocol implementation, which is included in the generic generator for now to provide a default supported protocol.

One very important thing to keep in mind when implementing features and integrations here is that they MUST NOT be coupled wherever possible. For example, a user MUST be able to use SigV4 even if they aren't using an AWS protocol or even the service trait.

Smithy is intended to be a generic IDL that can describe a broad range of protocols, not just AWS protocols. Separating the code generation components forces developers to provide interfaces capable of achieving that goal and ensures that users only have to take what they need.

In the future, these components may be moved to an entirely different repository to strengthen that divide even more.

Any time an AWS component needs to be modified or added. This can include adding support for new protocols, new auth traits, or new service customizations.