How to Choose a web Application Framework

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Web development frameworks are essential for both small and large development projects.

If you want to initiate a new web development project, then you will likely be shook by the sheer number of choices of web application frameworks that are available on the market.

In this article, you will get a chance to look at various criteria you should consider before you choose a framework for your project.

10 Key Considerations

License

You must do some research about the license of the framework.

In most cases, you will find that the framework offers you a great leeway to create your applications for commercial uses.

However, some frameworks are not so generous.

It is therefore important that you should know the terms and conditions associated with using that framework to create your web applications. In addition to the framework, which you are using, you must also look at the plugin or extension that you want to use along with the framework for any hidden clauses.

Hosting Requirement

When you are trying to select the best framework to create your web application, you must also look at the operating cost.

Many frameworks require hosting sites that may be very expensive. In such a situation, you have to settle for shared hosting with basic modules and settings.

Ease of Installation

The framework you want to select should be easy to install.

A framework that is easy to install and deploy is always preferable to the one that takes an inordinately long time for both.

Ease of Use

Every framework has its structure that includes, directory, naming conventions, and so on.

While some frameworks are flexible to use, others are very strict and will show errors if you make even a small mistake.

Therefore, select a framework that requires the shortest learning curve.

Library

Most people choose a framework due to its library. The library should not only allow you to control most of its features, but also help you avoid writing repetitive codes.

The library must include features like AJAX, authentication, authorization, caching, data sanitization, data validation, URL mapping, or rewriting, and others.

However, it is not true for every case as many developers want to work with frameworks that are the bare minimum and easy to handle.

If you are also looking for such a framework, then make sure that it has all the features that you will need to create your web app.

DB Abstraction and ORM

Most of the frameworks that are available in the market allow the application you have created to access a database or edit its contents.

Therefore, when you are choosing a framework you should make sure that it allows your application to become data agnostic.

This will allow you to easily switch the database and let your framework take care of the synchronization issue.

Additionally, you must also look at the ORM capability that will allow you to express the data as an object and see how it interacts with other elements.

JS Library

Most libraries allow you to swipe the libraries without any hassle.

However, the AJAX methods in the framework in many cases are aimed towards a definite JS library. In such a case, writing the functionality manually will fall on your shoulder.

On the other hand, the framework with a library agnostic method will allow you to switch the JavaScript library without much problem.

Unit Testing

The framework you are trying to select must have a unit-testing feature that will allow the programmer to individually test every unit of the source code to see whether it is fit for use.

Many frameworks allow you to test the critical parts of your app to find out whether it is working perfectly.

Scaling

Scaling is another point that you must consider when you are selecting a framework for your web app.

As your business grows, you will be forced to increase the productivity of your web app. If the framework does not allow scalability, then you have to redesign the app costing time and money.

Community

Sometimes an experienced developer may also run into errors, even with proper documentation. In such a case, you have to ask the community that supports the framework that you have chosen to help.

Therefore, choose a framework that has a huge community that can help developers who are new to the platform.

Conclusion

As these points show, there are multiple arguments to consider before you select a web app framework for your project.

Each business may put a different weight on each one of these important points. Therefore, a framework that offers an optimum solution for one business may not be the best option for another.

If you take your time to research before you make the critical decision of choosing the right framework, then you will not only save cost but also complete the project in the shortest possible time.

Hopefully, the information we have shared in this article has been useful to you and you find it interesting.