Refactor: Break large PRs into smaller focused changes

[m-marinucci]

Context

As identified in PR #89 review by Sourcery-AI, large PRs that bundle multiple features make review difficult and rollback complex.

Problem

PR #89 contains:

• C++ modernization changes
• CI/CD workflow overhauls
• Documentation updates
• Test additions
• Infrastructure improvements

This makes it:

• Harder to review thoroughly
• Difficult to identify regression sources
• Complex to rollback specific changes

Proposed Solution

Establish guidelines for PR size and scope:

1. Feature-focused PRs: Each PR should address one main feature or fix
2. Size limits: Suggest max 500-1000 lines changed per PR
3. Logical grouping: Related changes stay together, unrelated changes split

Example Split for PR #89

Could have been split into:

1. C++ compatibility fixes (register keyword removal)
2. Thread safety implementation
3. CI/CD workflow enhancements
4. Test infrastructure additions
5. Documentation updates

Benefits

• Easier review process
• Faster merge cycles
• Clearer git history
• Simpler rollback if needed
• Better issue tracking

Action Items

• Create PR guidelines in CONTRIBUTING.md
• Document recommended PR sizes
• Add PR template with scope checklist
• Consider using feature branches for large changes

Related: PR #89