constructive-io Constructive Realtime
Real-time data delivery via GraphQL subscriptions, live queries, and change tracking.
When to Apply
Use this skill when:
- Adding real-time subscriptions to a Constructive app
- Working with PostGraphile live queries
- Implementing change tracking and notifications
- Using WebSocket connections for real-time updates
- Using ephemeral realtime for high-frequency signals (cursors, presence, live indicators)
Core Concepts
GraphQL Subscriptions
PostGraphile v5 provides built-in subscription support via WebSocket (graphql-ws protocol). Subscriptions are automatically generated for any table with appropriate grants.
Live Queries
PostGraphile's @stream and @live directives enable:
- Live queries — auto-refresh results when underlying data changes
- Streaming — progressive delivery of large result sets
Change Tracking
The change_log system records row-level changes (INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE) that power both subscriptions and audit trails.
Ephemeral Realtime
DataRealtime({ ephemeral: true }) bypasses change_log entirely — events go straight from trigger → pg_notify → WebSocket with zero write overhead. Designed for high-frequency signals (cursor positions, presence indicators, live typing) where durability isn't needed.
References
| File | Content |
|---|---|
| realtime-subscriptions.md | Full subscription setup, WebSocket config, ephemeral mode, and patterns |
Cross-References
- Server configuration:
constructive-platform - Generated hooks (React Query):
constructive-hooks - Events and tracking:
constructive-events