Executive Summary
Breaking the "Reflection Wall" to Unlock Cloud-Native Efficiency
The Core Problem
As enterprises migrate to cloud-native architectures (AWS Lambda, Azure Functions, Kubernetes KEDA), the primary cost drivers are memory consumption and cold-start latency. Microsoft's answer is Native AOT, which compiles code directly to machine language.
However, adoption is blocked by the "Reflection Wall" -- critical testing tools like Moq depend on runtime reflection, which is incompatible with Native AOT. Teams must choose between performance (AOT) or quality (testability).
The Solution
Skugga eliminates this trade-off. By generating mocks at compile-time using C# 12 compiler interception, it provides a zero-friction path to modernization with no new languages or paradigms required.
Strategic Business Impact
Serverless Cost Savings (FinOps)
Skugga-enabled AOT services use 80% less CPU (0.07s vs 0.36s) -- a 5.1x efficiency gain translating directly to lower cloud compute bills.
Deployment Velocity (DORA Metrics)
"Distroless" containers at 47 MB -- 4x smaller than standard 200 MB. Startup drops from ~1200ms to <50ms for instantaneous scaling.
Future-Proofing
500 mocks in < 0.5 seconds build time proves Skugga scales without degrading developer productivity.
Performance Snapshot
| Metric | Legacy (Moq) | Skugga | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud Compatibility | Standard Only | Native AOT Ready | Unlocks Serverless/Edge |
| User CPU Cost | 0.36s | 0.07s | 5.1x Efficiency |
| Artifact Size | ~200 MB | 47 MB | 4x Smaller |
| Execution Speed | ~3,695 ns | ~572 ns | Faster Feedback |
| Memory Overhead | ~4,150 B/Mock | ~1,110 B/Mock | Lower Memory Bills |
Conclusion
Skugga is a strategic enabler. It solves the critical AOT blocker, allowing organizations to realize cost and performance benefits of Cloud-Native .NET without compromising code quality.