As the basis of all modern websites, software frameworks are integral to the ease of use and fast production we now know.
These code libraries, picture galleries, and more that come in software frameworks help developers quickly and efficiently create websites and apps without having to completely build something new every time.
To display the helpfulness and overall benefit of a framework, as well as how they are typically used, let’s dive into the details.
What is a Framework in Software and What It is Made Of?
A framework is made from a selection of templates that are made to be modified and expanded. These templates include libraries of code, images, documents and so much more. An example of this can be the very basics of how a website can function. By using the framework, you can build on and customize that expected website experience.
You can also find that certain frameworks have specific coding to complete different tasks more efficiently or in some way different than competitors. These entity-specific frameworks are what give each their “flavor” or differences.
The best part about them however is that they are made to be modified. No single framework has everything you need or is full plug-and-play. There will always be a little bit of work necessary to make a framework the best it can be. They do however have the best work speed and ease of use because of that modifiable base.
What Goes Into a Good Software Framework?
A good framework is a combination of helpful features and easily understandable parameters. This makes the basis of the program. From there, many industry standards have arisen, such as:
- Has well-known use cases and follows them well. Each framework has to have a purpose and it has to work well to execute that purpose.
- Allowance for modification and customization as needed by the developer. This is especially a big concern when researching new software frameworks.
- Non-redundant code. A framework that has unneeded code in its base will slow down entire processes and ultimately cause more problems than solutions.
- Pieces of integral code that cannot be changed. If everything were editable within a framework, there would be no point in having it to begin with. Each framework is built for a certain task.
- The framework controls the order and flow of operations. One of the strong points of a framework is that it can natively handle many different situations inherently. But not having the user or developer control this, time and resources are saved.
There are many more important pieces that should be considered when shopping for a framework. The ultimate goal is to find one that aligns with your goals and handles tasks as you would prefer.
Of course, not everyone wants to handle an entire software framework for their business, and we here at WillDom understand and support businesses like this. We have a worldwide team of professionals that can work on any tech project you need.
With a roster this wide, you can even build a 24/7 operation that follows the sun every day. We are more than prepared to help you find and modify your perfect framework. To find out more, head to our page all about Software Framework outsourcing and schedule a call with our team.
The types of Software Development Frameworks
As with all web development, there are two different types of software frameworks. One supports backend development and the other supports frontend development.
Back-end development web frameworks automate a lot of the processes that developers often have to spend time on. They help build out a base, or a workable canvas that developers then “create” pages. They can also help make pages more dynamic with their entity-specific code and “flow” control.
Other ways that developers are assisted by software frameworks are through session management, database access, and formatting and templates usable across many page types. All of these features come greatly assist developers on the back end.
As for front-end development, a framework will often come with a certain styling and way in which content is shown to the audience. Developers of course can alter this, but remember, a framework is chosen for how it completes its task. A good front-end framework will have an appealing base style and give room for the company’s personality to shine through.
Pros and Cons of Software Frameworks
A framework is overall a very helpful thing. They provide developers with a toolbox and ready-made canvas, instead of starting from zero every time. They also can help optimize tasks and needed functions that would take time away from the development process.
They are not perfect, however. There are restrictions within the software that could cause a roadblock that is not currently known. This is avoided with research and documentation, but it is always a risk.
A framework could also take a large amount of time to learn. You have to step into what is essentially half a project and then manipulate it like it was your own. This can take a fair amount of time and may cause high overheads.
These things aside, software frameworks will never go away, and will likely expand as time goes on. If you want to keep up to date on how we here at WillDom can help, feel free to visit our website or connect with us on LinkedIn.
