What is a JavaScript Framework?

What are JavaScript Frameworks?

A framework is a collection of components, libraries to be used for specific functionalities; they are usually extensible. Frameworks are also made up of reusable abstractions of code, that are usable through a well-defined Application Programming Interface (API). 

So, a Javascript framework is a framework written in JavaScript for use in a JavaScript runtime environment. There are lots of JavaScript frameworks out there for different purposes, such as creating user interfaces, building mobile apps, and so much more.

To understand frameworks better, think of a mobile phone manufacturer, and imagine they have to manufacture every single material they use. Doing this is a lot of work, as they’d have to design the screen, battery, camera and all the other stuff that makes up a phone.

Now imagine they have to do this for every different model of phone produced monthly? The process will be grossly inefficient. To work around this, they could design the phone’s (electronic) board where other parts are mounted-on (the framework) and then outsource the screen, camera, and battery from other manufacturers. 

The above metaphor is similar to what a framework helps with. Frameworks work as a scaffold that you can ‘mount’ your components on using the already provided slots.

Why Use a JavaScript Framework?

It is not always necessary to use a framework, but it’s one of the tools that can help you develop software better and faster. Frameworks will abstract some complexities away from you and let you focus on writing the business logic for the software, thereby saving development time.

With a framework, you won’t have to reinvent the wheel, as they are usually considered batteries included. Frameworks come with some of the standard tools you would need when writing code; for example, ExpressJS comes with a JSON parser. 

A framework sometimes also enforces a pattern or standard to follow, which makes it easier to write better code with cleaner file structures.

What are the Advantages of Using a JavaScript Framework?

There are a lot of advantages to using frameworks. Some of them are:

• They Reduce Development Time
• They Encourage Efficient Code Practices
• They Are Batteries Included
• They Are Reliable

They Reduce Development Time

The use of frameworks significantly reduces development time because they allow you to develop the functionality they’re made for, very fast. They abstract some complexity for you and provides a skeleton or scaffold for your app.

They Encourage Efficient Code Practices

Frameworks allow you to write efficient, readable code in an organized manner because they are usually opinionated and have a pattern or architecture for you to follow.

They Are Batteries Included

Most frameworks already give you standard functionalities that you would use out-of-the-box. For example, the Ionic Framework for mobile application development already comes with toasts, modals, buttons component, that will make mobile application development easier.

They Are Reliable

Most Javascript frameworks are very reliable, maintainable, and secure. The reliability is as a result of the testing, documentation, and support they receive from developer communities. It is also easier to find help within the community.

What Are The Downsides of Using JavaScript Frameworks?

Technologies are created to make tasks less stressful and increase productivity. But there are pitfalls to using many technologies, and it’s the same with using frameworks.

These are some of the tradeoffs you often have to make when using a framework:

• Reduced Speed and Performance
• Chances of Security Loopholes
• Hard to Modify
• Steep Learning Curves

Reduced Speed and Performance

There are abstraction layers in the development of frameworks, and these often lead to unavoidable overhead. The overhead can lead to a reduction in the speed and performance of the framework. The good thing is that the decrease in development time often outweighs this. However, in time-critical applications, the ‘sacrifices’ made might be something to consider deeply before settling for the use of a framework.

Chances of Security Loopholes

Sometimes even the best of frameworks are victims of targeted security attacks or exploits. When this happens,  all the software developed with that framework automatically becomes susceptible to those kinds of attacks. Luckily, most developers find solutions to the loopholes as soon as they are discovered.

Hard to Modify

Sometimes, the implementation of core functionalities of a framework is not satisfactory. This could be because of the architecture or language barrier used in the framework, and they are usually hard to modify. The solution is often to use another one, as there are several alternatives to many JavaScript frameworks.

Steep Learning Curves

Frameworks dictate to you; so you need to study them properly to be able to use them. A lot of frameworks have steep learning curves, which makes it difficult to learn. However, you’ll most likely be okay with knowing how to use only one popular JavaScript framework.

Conclusion

With great power comes great responsibility. While the thought of using JavaScript frameworks every time is exciting, it should not be abused. The solution to some problems might not require the use of a framework.

Hence, knowing when to and when not to use a framework is a ‘skill’ and when you try to use one, ask yourself a  few questions like:

• Can the application be developed without using one?
• Does it save time and effort?
• Does it scale?
• What is the impact?

If the answers are more of a “YES” than a “NO,” then a framework will fit in quite well.