Recently, I decided to go back into business as a web designer and developer. In the two years I was away, a lot has changed. Ajax is more popular than ever, Macromedia and Adobe are now one in the same, and frameworks are popping up all over the place! Sure, most of that stuff has been coming on for a while, but to me, it is all fairly new.
I had never used a framework before. In fact, I had very little knowledge of what frameworks could accomplish. However, after only a few months of using frameworks for my projects, I have to say I am impressed!
What is a Framework?
For those of you who are not familiar with a framework, it is a collection of libraries (classes and/or functions) that serve the purpose of simplifying your code.
Frameworks make life much simpler
After spending some time working with both php and javascript frameworks, I have decided that it is the only way to go for a professional programmer. Now, most of the applications I develop I use a framework and it only takes me only half as long. Also, I only have to write a quarter of the code I would normally write without the use of a framework.
Not for everyone
I don’t think frameworks are for everyone. If you are new to a programming language, I would recommend learning the basics before taking up a framework. Some frameworks can be like learning a new language. In order to use a framework to its full potential, you need to understand what it is accomplishing.
Also, some developers just may be more comfortable with doing it the good ol’ fashioned way.. nothing wrong with that, but give a framework a try and I know you will see the benefits.
Picking a framework
A good framework will be simple and easy to understand, have a large variety of advanced features, yet still leave a small footprint. Since most are initialized every time you call the script, you don’t want a framework that is going to bog down your site. Some frameworks have the ability to only load the features that you need. Picking a framework is really a matter of personal choice. Just make sure to do a little research before hand. Find one where you can understand the documentation and the community forums are fairly active.
PHP Frameworks
There are a number of php frameworks out there. I am currently using Code Igniter, however there are many that are just as (if not more) capable.
Here is a list of php frameworks that I am aware of:
- Code Igniter — Very fast, well documented and not as strict on the MVC logic ( Developed by the creators of Expression Engine - Ellis Labs)
- Kohana — A fork of Code Igniter with much more community involvement
- phpCake — Comparably fast, well documented but stricter on the MVC logic
- Symfony — I’ve heard it has more of a learning curve, but has more advanced features
Javascript Frameworks
As with php frameworks, there are numerous javascript frameworks to choose from. jQuery, to me, seems to be one of the most popular and is my javascript framework of choice.
Here are the Javascript frameworks I am aware of:
- jQuery – Well documented and very active user base
- Prototype — Overall a nice framework that makes ajax a breeze
- MooTools — Not too familiar with it, but I hear it is very compact
Give it a try
If you haven’t already, give a framework a try. I know after that first little learning curve, you will go framework crazy like me.
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If you know of a frame work that I haven’t listed, let me know. Id be happy to add it and give you credit
Tags: Coding, Development, Frameworks, javascript, php, programming