Why Use Any Framework?

Why Use Any Framework?

let's first understand why do we need to use any framework at all in the first place

Framework platforms are extremely dynamic, reusable, and feature helpful tools that allow developers to work more efficiently. Think of them as a template for computer programming. Each framework is based around a specific coding language, such as Java, Python, C+, CSS, or PHP, and creates a blueprint for developing in that style. 

Frameworks can be used for both front-end and back-end development, in standalone applications, and in web development. While each type of software framework platform has its own unique features, they also share some common benefits.

A general-purpose programming language like Java is capable of supporting a wide variety of applications. Not to mention that Java is actively being worked upon and improving every day.

Moreover, there are countless open source and proprietary libraries to support Java in this regard. So why do we need a framework after all? Honestly, it isn't absolutely necessary to use a framework to accomplish a task. But, it's often advisable to use one for several reasons:

• Helps us focus on the core task rather than the boilerplate associated with it
• Brings together years of wisdom in the form of design patterns
• Helps us adhere to the industry and regulatory standards
• Brings down the total cost of ownership for the application

We've just scratched the surface here and we must say that the benefits are difficult to ignore. But it can't be all positives, so what's the catch:

• Forces us to write an application in a specific manner
• Binds to a specific version of language and libraries
• Adds to the resource footprint of the application

What Is the Difference Between a Framework and a Library?

Sometimes the terms “framework” and “library” are used interchangeably. Why would any developer choose to work with one or another? While both have bundled, prepackaged code, a programmer has good reason to choose one over the other depending on the type of project they’re developing.

When using a code library, the programmer is “calling” the code, meaning they have full control and responsibility over where the code goes and how it all works together. 

In a framework environment, the programmer is told where to plug in code by the framework application itself. This is a concept known as inversion of control, and it helps to reduce bugs, make testing easier, reduce server usage, and provide an overall more dynamic programming experience.

One way to look at it is by exploring this bike/car-buying analogy: When a developer is using a code library, it’s a lot like purchasing a mechanic’s manual, toolkit, and set of auto parts in order to build a bike/car. While you might have the necessary instructions and components, the final product is 100% your responsibility. 

Using frameworks is more like buying a bike from a dealer, where you can select a model and then decide on things like color, accessories, and safety features. While the terms library and framework are used interchangeably, choosing to work with a framework simply requires much less labor and reduces the risks of breakdowns.

What Are the Different Types of Frameworks?

Programmers can choose from a number of software frameworks to suit the functionality needed for a wide range of projects. Frameworks are typically built from popular programming languages.

Some of the most common and popular frameworks used today include the following.

Web Application Development Frameworks 

• JavaScript frameworks (JS frameworks) make it easier to build applications for both iOS and Microsoft.
• Popular frameworks include AngularJS, Ruby on Rails, and Laravel.

DataScience Frameworks

• Java, Scala, Python, R, and SQL frameworks simplify large-scale data processing from researching and prototyping, through to production deployment.
• Linear models for data analysis can predict behavior, language modeling, and image recognition and processing. Natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML) are flexible and pre-designed to speed builds and increase a programmer’s ability to deploy ML-powered applications.
• Popular frameworks include Apache Spark, PyTorch, and TensorFlow.

Mobile Application Development Frameworks

• Free, open-source mobile user interface toolkits make it possible for developers to ensure consistency across cross-platform applications for Android, iOS, and all web interfaces.
• These frameworks can also be used to simplify the development of applications for mobile, web, and desktop from a single codebase.
• .NET and C# improve building for Android and iOS applications.
• Popular frameworks include Ionic, Xamarin, and Flutter.