Importance of modern JS frameworks and SPAs

When it comes to modern front-end web development, how essential are JavaScript Frameworks?

In computer programming, a framework is a foundation over which programmers build their software. A JavaScript framework would provide similar assistance. It provides a set of prewritten code enabling developers to use the framework as a structure for the JavaScript program or application without having to start from scratch. These frameworks are easier to apply as most applications and websites have some common features. Hence, they provide businesses with a great opportunity to reduce their development time and make the task less laborious for the development team.

So, just as the skeleton is important for the support and shape of the human body, JavaScript frameworks are essential for providing a foundation for a given website or application.

When we talk about modern JS frameworks, there are three in particular that we must discuss given their popularity and importance and building scalable interactive web applications.

• Angular
• React
• Vue.js

Let's dig deep into each of these.

Angular Framework

Developed by Google, Angular is an open-source web application framework written in TypeScript and used for developing single-page applications (SPA).

The features offered by this framework are:

• Free control over adaptability.
• Capability to meet huge data requirements.
• Data binding & Dynamic rendering.
• Simple, declarative, and effective templates (with easier DOM manipulation & two-way binding).
• Instant help and feedback related to Angular with practically every IDE.
• Intuitive API and ability to reuse the code to meet a particular development target.

React Framework

Introduced in 2013, React is a reusable framework created by Facebook. According to Google Trends, React is one of the most popular frameworks. It is ideal for developing interactive user interfaces and offers features like:

• Virtual DOM Model facilitating easy integration with applications.
• Reusable components making website or application development simpler.
• One-way flow of data (more intuitive than bi-directional data binding). 
• Reload feature which allows users to immediately see the applied changes.

Vue.js Framework

A free open-source JavaScript framework, Vue.js is a progressive front-end framework that is approachable and easy to learn. Despite being a relatively new framework, it has already earned popularity due to its various features and is suitable for developing both small and large applications. Vue.js has the following features:

• Reusable codes & predefined options for custom elements.
• Employs an MVVM structural pattern to separate the GUI from the model’s business logic.
• Dual integration mode to build high-end SPA.

Which JS framework is the best?

When it comes to web development, JavaScript continues to be the leading programming language even today. There are several frameworks, other than the three we mentioned, with their unique features, advantages, and drawbacks.

However, out of all of these, there is no “best” JS framework.

Each website or application comes with its own specific requirements which need to be decided before choosing an ideal framework. Remember, each framework has some exclusive features, and it is crucial to evaluate which one matches your requirements best.

When working for our software development clients at Integriti, we first sit down to discuss project requirements and then evaluate each framework accordingly. We also consider a framework’s complexity, learning curve, and compatibility documentation before making a choice.

How to make the right framework choice?

JavaScript frameworks are key to optimizing the entire web development process and saving time, effort, and money. However, there is not one framework that is the perfect match for all projects.

How are you going to make the right framework choice for your project and ensure a more efficient development process?

To find the right framework, you need to consider four factors.

• Existing Toolstack.
• Complexity
• Performance Requirements
• Technical Competence

Let's explore each of these in detail below.

Existing Toolstack

It is important to make sure that the framework you are considering is compatible with the front-end programming language of the project. For example, if Java or Python is being used then you must select from their respective frameworks.

If you're looking to apply a framework to a pre-existing site, then more factors come into play. For instance, you need to consider the time and resources needed to build a new website with a framework as opposed to implementing that framework in an already existing code.

Complexity

Some frameworks can support large applications while some are suitable for building SPAs. Hence, you need to understand and evaluate the scope of the project before selecting a framework best suited to your project requirements.

Performance requirements

Another factor that you need to consider is the speed of your website. Some frameworks prioritize quick responses due to their focus on virtual DOM. On the other hand, if your project requires more built-in functions and control then a more robust framework would be a better choice.

Technical Competence

Some JavaScript frameworks are easy to learn and implement while others are more complicated but offer extra features. If you must use a framework soon, then an easy-to-use framework would be a better choice depending upon the proficiency of your team. However, if you are not short on time then a more complex framework can be beneficial in the long run.

When deciding on the right JavaScript framework for your project you might not need to be restricted to one framework. If a project is using microservices architecture, then it might be worthwhile to use multiple frameworks.

These decisions are critical for optimizing your web development process and should be taken after consulting with a tech professional.

Single-page applications

Single-page applications are applications that work inside the browser and do not need page reloading in the course of use. SPAs are part of your everyday use and include examples like Gmail, Google Maps, GitHub, and Facebook. They serve an exceptional UX by trying to replicate a “natural” environment in the browser with no page reloads and extra wait time etc. Basically, it's one web page that you visit which then loads other content utilizing JavaScript.

SPAs are heavily dependent on JavaScript.

They request the markup and data independently and render pages up front in the browser. We can achieve this by using advanced JavaScript frameworks like Angular (How to hire angular developers), Meteor.js, Ember.js, Knockout.js, etc.

Single-page sites are important in today’s digital age because they help keep the user in a comfortable web space where content is displayed in a simple, easy, and effective manner. They offer a much better user experience as you can easily navigate through content without waiting for the pages to load.

The major distinction between multi-page and single-page applications is that SPAs download the page a single time. SPAs are also much faster in terms of interactivity because when a user interacts with the app, only the required component is modified not the complete application.

Modern JS frameworks are essential in helping business optimize their web development process. They can help you save on time and costs when developing web applications. This is especially true for developing single-page applications (SPAs) which are very much in demand due to the fast speed of operations they offer.

If you are looking for a partner for your front-end development project, get in touch with us here.

‍