refactor: extend is empty() to check if a string is empty

[skayliu]

Description

Refactor: extend is empty() to check if a string is empty

Related issues

closes #

[saig0]

@skayliu thank you for taking the time to contribute. 🙇

First, I would like to clarify if we need the function is empty(string) for a string value. I would assume that we would cover the use cases with the new function is blank(string) (ref).

Why do you see a need for this function?
Please describe your use case.

[skayliu]

@skayliu thank you for taking the time to contribute. 🙇

First, I would like to clarify if we need the function is empty(string) for a string value. I would assume that we would cover the use cases with the new function is blank(string) (ref).

Why do you see a need for this function? Please describe your use case.

Because is empty(string) is different from is blank(string) , so i think we need it.

[saig0]

Because is empty(string) is different from is blank(string) , so i think we need it.

Yes, the behavior differs in the following cases:

is blank("")     // true
is empty("")     // true 

is blank(" ")    // true
is empty(" ")    // false 

However, I challenge that we need both functions. Please come up with a case where you need is empty() and can't use is blank()?

---

Reasoning:

• Adding a new function increases the maintenance of our tools and the complexity of the language.
• We aim to add all functions to the DMN standard. The OMG needs to approve the proposal. So, we should provide good arguments for it.

[skayliu]

@saig0, Let's close this PR for less good reason.