sktime/sktime

[ENH] Replace `MTYPE_SOFT_DEPS` and `SCITYPE_REGISTER` by programmatic lookup

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#9704 opened on Mar 20, 2026

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 (9 comments) (0 reactions) (0 assignees)Python (7,162 stars) (1,192 forks)batch import
enhancementgood first issuemodule:datatypes

Description

MTYPE_SOFT_DEPS and SCITYPE_REGISTER are remnants of a dictionary based registry for supported data types.

These should be moved to a programmatic lookup using the class/plugin based structure.

It should be checked if these are still used - if yes, then these should be generated by walking the registry similar to the other generator functions in datatypes._registry.

Possibly a plain English description (short) needs to be added to the scitype classes.

Contributor guide

Tech stack
python
Domain
databackend
Issue type
refactor
DifficultyEstimated implementation difficulty for a new contributor, from 1 for very small changes to 5 for expert-level work.
3
Estimated timeA rough time range for an experienced contributor to investigate, implement, test, and prepare a pull request.
1-2 days
Activity statusHow available the issue appears right now: fresh, active, stale, blocked, or waiting on maintainer input.
active
ClarityHow clearly the issue explains the expected change, acceptance criteria, and next step.
clear
Prerequisites
understanding of sktime's datatypes registryfamiliarity with class/plugin structure
Newbie friendlinessA 1-100 score estimating how approachable this issue is for first-time contributors.
40
Research direction
Examine the current usage of `MTYPE SOFT DEPS` and `SCITYPE REGISTER` in the codebase (e.g., search for references). Then look at the programmatic generation functions in `datatypes. registry` to understand the pattern. Implement a walking of the registry similar to those generator functions, replacing the dictionary based lookups. Ensure no breakage by checking all imports and usages. Possibly add plain English descriptions to scitype classes as mentioned.