JavaScript is an essential technology for the contemporary internet. Whilst there are multiple possibilities for the back end, such as the established PHP, and more modern Python and Node.js, there is only one option for front-end development.
Using a transcriber or more advanced alternatives such as PyScript does not make any difference to the end result. Ultimately, all code must be converted to JavaScript in order to be supported by web browsers. As a result, it is necessary for all web developers to have a basic understanding of the language, for better or worse.
There is a wide range of JavaScript frameworks available, such as the popular Angular, React and Vue.js, as well as the lesser-known Meteor, Mithril and Polymer. These front-end solutions can also be used for other purposes. Node.js, for example, has become one of the most easily accessible and popular runtime environments available.
It is likely that there is a valid reason for this occurrence; JavaScript and its derivatives have a complex lifespan and are of great benefit. What could be the cause of this? Moreover, what could this signify for the future of our projects? To gain an understanding of this, it is first necessary to provide some context.
First Use of Java Script
In the 1990s, the World Wide Web (precursor to the internet) was vastly different to how it appears today. At its inception, the idea of a dynamic web page was little more than a counter that would increment with each new visitor to a site. Netscape then set out to revolutionize the static nature of the web.
In collaboration with Sun Microsystems, Netscape incorporated the Java programming language into their web browser to offer a scripting choice. At the time, Java was extensively utilized and highly efficient, particularly in bringing object-oriented programming to the forefront of the software industry and revolutionizing its landscape.
Netscape’s executives concluded that creating their own language would be more advantageous than purchasing a license from a third party, and thus tasked Brendan Eich with the job. Incredibly, JavaScript was completed in just 10 days. The initial version was released in December 1995, and the following year Netscape submitted it to Ecma International to be used as the basis of a standard for all web browsers. This is now a part of history.
By 2023, it is expected that almost all websites will include some form of JavaScript in their design. This programming language, which was first created in just 10 days, has become a major factor in the world of online development and design. Nevertheless, this was not an easy feat to achieve.
Primitive Examples of AJAX, jQuery, and JavaScript
JavaScript has long been considered to have some idiosyncrasies and imperfections. This is not an unfounded assessment, as the language has evolved significantly over the last two decades. Despite this progress, some of its issues can be traced back to its early stages of development and the speed at which it was created. It is important to acknowledge the remarkable technical feat achieved by Eich, however, certain problems are likely to require experimentation to be resolved.
The language in question was constructed with different approaches in mind, resulting in a lack of economy and organization which has been amplified by the presence of inelegant elements. Despite this, its ability to fulfil a requirement in the Information Technology field has been recognized and it has been embraced by a dedicated user base. There is a degree of variation in the language’s expressiveness, ranging from elaborate to more restrained.
JQuery, one of JavaScript’s most well-known libraries, was a great help to the programming language. This project simplified JavaScript and addressed the issues developers were facing with AJAX. AJAX is a set of client-side web development techniques that use a variety of technologies to create asynchronous web applications.
It can be argued that jQuery provided a rallying cry for developers. Even today, more than 70% of websites continue to use it due to its ability to provide a unified basis for web development. However, how have we gone from this relatively stable platform to the current cycle of disruption?
Scripting in Java After the Year 2020
JavaScript’s development has shown no signs of slowing down. Many of the features that jQuery initially provided are now part of the standard JavaScript code. Since ECMA6 in 2023, there have been yearly updates, varying from minor refinements to substantial new features such as asynchronous capability. This showcases the adaptability and fluidity of the JavaScript environment, with little regard for stability.
Popular JavaScript frameworks are well-known for the high frequency of updates. Angular, for instance, has had 14 versions since its launch 10 years ago, while Vue.js has seen 19 updates over the last 8 years. React had 18 releases between 2023 and 2023. In contrast, C++ has had six significant updates in its 20-year history, highlighting the disparity.
This expansion is concurrent with the development of web browsers, as well as the increased processing power of computers and smart devices. This is a cyclical process, in which enhanced browsers create a demand for more intricate frameworks, which consequently encourages further advancements in browser technology.
Analysis of StackOverflow data indicates that JavaScript communities tend to favor cutting-edge solutions over established ones, with the popularity of frameworks tending to decline after a few years, the exception being React, which has seen steady growth from 2023 to 2023.
The cycle of studying and revisiting new developments can be quite compelling. However, it is important to properly assess how changes can affect our products before their adoption. This is especially true for deprecations, as it is easy to overlook details in the documentation, even though most organizations take the time to read and consider the implications before implementation. Consequently, the code may not be compatible with the new system.
Impact on Your Company
The sheer size and dynamism of this group of people is incredible, allowing JavaScript and online applications to reach their full potential. However, it is undeniable that the rapid rate of change within the ecosystem has been difficult to keep up with, leading to a heightened level of stress, fatigue and frustration amongst developers.
It is important to consider that not all changes are necessarily beneficial and that even when introducing new ideas, some level of retraining or adjustment may be required. Therefore, rather than following the crowd and investing in the newest trends, it may be beneficial to remain with what is already working. Consider all of the potential risks before taking any action.
