Make mock mode configuration part of the repository instead of a local-only
file. This ensures consistent mock mode behavior across all environments
(development, CI/CD, demo server) and makes it work out of the box for
new contributors.
Changes:
- Add mock.env to repository with sensible defaults (mock mode OFF by default)
- Support mock.env.local for personal overrides (gitignored)
- Update .gitignore to allow mock.env but exclude .local variants
- Backend loads mock.env then merges mock.env.local overrides
- hot-dev.sh loads both files in correct order
Benefits:
- New developers can clone and use mock mode immediately
- Demo server gets consistent mock configuration
- Personal preferences stay private in .local file
- No surprises - mock mode disabled by default in fresh clones
- CI/CD can use mock mode without custom configuration
Documentation:
- Updated README.md to explain mock.env is in repo
- Enhanced MOCK_MODE.md with local override instructions
- Updated claude.md with new configuration strategy
- Added mock.env.local.example for quick setup
Example workflow:
git clone <repo>
npm run mock:on # Works immediately with repo defaults
# Or create personal config:
cp docs/development/mock.env.local.example mock.env.local
# Edit mock.env.local with your preferences
