Based on research, the argument for choosing a platform over a framework for application modernization is strong, particularly in terms of rapid deployment, reduced risk, and minimizing the need for new skills. Let's delve into five aspects of this:
1) What is a platform in the context of application development, and what are its key characteristics?
A platform in application development is an integrated environment providing tools, components, and frameworks necessary for the entire application lifecycle. This includes development tools, runtime environments, libraries, APIs, deployment and hosting options, management and monitoring features, support for multiple languages, collaboration tools, and built-in security features – in short: everything for speed, flexibility, and scalability.
2) How does a platform differ from a framework in application development, focusing on their basic definitions and key differences?
Platforms offer a comprehensive suite of tools and services for the entire application lifecycle, including development, management, and deployment, ensuring everything is integrated. Frameworks, on the other hand, often focus on specific development aspects like the back-end but require additional frameworks for other areas. They don't provide the same level of integration as platforms.
Companies choosing DYI approaches with individual frameworks often end up facing an avalanche of integration challenges.
Particularly for modernization projects, platforms handle complexities and provide the necessary know-how for transitioning applications to modern web technologies.
3) Why is a platform more advantageous for rapid deployment and low risk in application modernization projects?
Platforms offer low-code tools and a wealth of pre-developed objects, streamlining the development process and significantly reducing time to market. This integrated approach minimizes risks commonly associated with modernization projects by providing a more controlled and standardized environment
Platforms offer a wide array of tools that are designed to work together out-of-the-box, as well as templates and holistic support material, streamlining the development process and significantly reducing time to market. This integrated approach minimizes risks commonly associated with modernization projects by providing a more controlled and standardized environment.
4) How does using a platform like Build.One result in reduced requirements for hiring new skills?
Platforms eliminate the need for specialized web development knowledge as they handle many complexities internally. They often include visual editors for designing web interfaces, reducing the need for specific technical skills and easing the learning curve for existing personnel.
5) Why is a platform the better choice over a framework for modernizing complex, mission-critical applications?
In complex projects, the sheer volume of frameworks, libraries, and services required can be overwhelming. By choosing a platform, it is possible to effectively eliminate many of these headaches. A platform offers a more streamlined and integrated approach, reducing the complexity and burden on the development team, and making it easier to focus on the core application functionality and business logic.
In conclusion, platforms provide a complete environment that facilitates rapid development, deployment, and management of applications, making them a superior choice for modernizing complex, mission-critical applications. Their comprehensive nature reduces risks, expedites time to market, and minimises the need for specialized skill sets, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced tech landscape.