Understanding Software Frameworks

What is a Software Framework?

A software framework provides a standard pattern to build and deploy applications. A software framework is a universal, reusable software environment that provides particular functionality as part of a larger software platform to facilitate the development of software applications. They boost performance, extend capabilities, and offer libraries of coding shortcuts so developers aren’t hand-coding web applications from scratch.

Think of it this way; When you are making a P&B Sandwich, it is much easier to buy bread from the store than it is to bake it from scratch. Frameworks are like that slice of bread – they speed up the process.

Core Features of Frameworks

A framework normally consists of the following components:

Libraries: Standard templates for programming code that can be implemented in many different applications during development.

APIs: Gives access to other application’s databases backends

Caching: A memory buffer used to temporarily store frequently accessed data. It improves performance since data does not have to be retrieved again from the original source

Tool Packs: Improve the usability and functionality of an application built with frameworks.

Popular Frameworks Used in Software Development

Here at Swan Software Solutions, we have become adept at using numerous different software frameworks in the development of our client’s applications. Here are some of our favorites:

Ruby on Rails: A cross-platform web application framework written in Ruby. This framework is great for data-driven applications.

AngularJS: An open-source front-end web application program based upon JavaScript. AngularJS is a very robust framework filled with extensive tools.

ReactJS: A JavaScript library that is used to create user-interfaces for web applications. ReactJS previews applications in real time when developers are modifying code.

React Native: Allows developers to build mobile apps using just JavaScript.

Have you ever used any of these frameworks in the development of your application? If so, let us know in the comments!

Do you have a software project or idea but don’t know what the next step is? Contact us today and bring your project or idea to the SWAN Wedge Team for a FREE technical discovery roadmap of your prospective software project.