REACT & REACT NATIVE
High performance, built for purpose, scalable apps
There are many reasons React is one of the most globally embraced Javascript libraries (it is a library, not a framework) for building applications. It’s super performance-oriented, scalable and developer friendly with a global community. Originally developed by Facebook, companies such as Netflix, Uber, AirBnB and Dropbox have adopted it as core tech for their platforms.
As React is all about Javascript and the front end, it’s not singularly used in development. It’s typically built in conjunction with a backend language such as PHP, Node.JS or Django. It can work with any backend language that can serve up JSON data, so the options are extensive. For instance, Headless WordPress can utilise React for the front end. The backend language is responsible for handling the server-side logic and serving up data, while React is responsible for rendering the data on the client-side and handling user interactions.
Awesome performance
React is built for scalability. Along with a number of in-built functions (such as lazy loading components), it’s characterised by reusable components (reducing code bloat and boosting efficiency in execution); a virtual DOM (Document Object Model), which is a lightweight in-memory representation of the actual DOM. This means it can be updated dynamically and results in fast, responsive UIs. It also utilises server-side rendering, which allows an application to be pre-rendered on the server and sent to the client as a fully formed HTML document, taking weight off the front end.
When should React be used?
If you need a traditional multi-page website, React is unlikely to be the go-to. A CMS (such WordPress or Craft) is probably a better option. Although, there are scenarios (such as needing to disseminate content over multiple platforms) where it is a good fit.
React is essentially designed for building single page applications, whereby code and data are loaded within a single “page”. I.e. content is dynamically generated without the need for a page refresh. It’s highly customisable, which lends itself to complex and unique interfaces, and means applications can be purpose-built from the ground up. It’s modular and component based, and utilises child components as an app evolves and increases in complexity.
A few examples where React rules supreme:
- Single Page Applications (SPAs) – web applications that dynamically update content on a single page without requiring a full page refresh.
- Mobile Applications – React Native, a framework for building native mobile apps using React, makes it possible to build high-performance iOS and Android apps using a single codebase.
- Dashboards and Analytics – React can be used to build data-rich dashboards and analytics tools that provide real-time insights, and is fabulous for data visualization.
- Customer or user portals – React can be used to build custom user interfaces which integrate data from multiple sources
- Complex Forms and Surveys – it can be used to build complex forms and surveys with dynamic, real-time validation and feedback
- Gaming and Interactive Applications
- Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications
RECENT WORK
Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis
Melbourne University undertook a study to investigate how lifestyle recommendations delivered through an online learning platform affect MS.
With specific course requirements, including the ability for replication and scaling globally, we developed a set of features and custom built the course from the ground up using the Laravel framework.
Managing agency: JMA Creative
So what’s React Native?
Well, React Native is used for building apps on iOS and Android. This means if you have a web based React app, you can then utilise the Javascript codebase for the mobile apps across BOTH operating systems. You don’t need separate apps for iOS and Android. Handy.
Also, React Native uses native components instead of web components. This translates to a more “device-like” user experience. Components are optimized for performance, and provide a more natural look and feel compared to web components. React Native also provides access to native APIs and features, such as camera, accelerometer, and push notifications, meaning you can make apps super feature-rich and indistinguishable from those built using native tools. That said, there are some limitations to API access and native features (as compared with iOS or Android development tools).
One thing we do love is the dev cycle for React Native is fast, with changes made to the code immediately reflected in the app. This means we can iterate quickly and make changes in real-time. This means faster time-to-market and lower dev costs.
So, are you thinking about building an app, either web-based on for mobile – and like to learn more?
Get in touch via the form below.
BRAND EXPERIENCE
Big or small, we strive to build awesome relationships with our clients. Here’s a handful that we’ve had the privilege of working with.
“The team at Mainstay have been a massive support to the Live for Lily Foundation, in the design and roll out of our new website, the implementation of an improved email server, and general all round assistance of all our information technology needs. They’re responsive to our requests and service is second to none in ensuring our requirements are met and the performance of our site is optimal and secure.”
Philip Martins - Director and Chief Financial Officer, Live for Lily Foundation
INSIGHTS
WHERE TO FROM HERE?
1. Get in touch
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2. Tell us about you
Explore business and project requirements, goals and what you're looking to achieve.
3. FREE audit
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4. Plan and GO
With a roadmap in place, work with our team to evolve, advance and grow your business.
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
We’ll happily arrange a time for a call or meet, provide you with a scope of work and estimate, or give you some expert advice.
