For web technologies, Python serves as a valuable programming language, thanks to its exhaustive standard library of allied tools and a user-friendly syntax. This language has garnered immense popularity, counting notable companies such as Spotify, Instacart, Pinterest, and even Google among its ardent users, particularly for data science, machine learning and Internet of Things (IoT) endeavours.
Elucidate the meaning of a Python framework.
To facilitate their development process, web application developers often depend on Python frameworks. These frameworks comprise a set of pre-written code that comes in handy when tackling repetitive and typical tasks. Using such code libraries is a prudent approach for easing out the development process of web applications by saving valuable time and resources.
Why and when would you need to use a Python framework?
- In case of creating a dynamic website that facilitates the three core actions of creating, reading, and updating, see the suggested article.
- If you require a system to execute tasks while also aiming to distinguish the user interface from its underlying logic, then:
- If you find yourself using identical codes repeatedly for tasks such as user authentication, website sessions, and other application-related operations:
- In case you are working with tight deadlines or a dearth of resources:
The Various Forms of Python Frameworks
Python frameworks can be broadly classified into three categories:
Complete software stack
For companies that require custom forms, templates, as well as complex page layouts, resorting to a full stack framework can prove to be invaluable. Such frameworks come equipped with enterprise-grade components meant to support the design process while aiding with backend features, user interface, and data storage. Some widely used examples of these frameworks are Django, Pyramid, Web2py, CubicWeb, and TurboGears.Miniature structures
For completing specialised tasks with a manually intensive coding process, developers often use simple, uncomplicated frameworks. Such frameworks, including CherryPy, Falcon, Pycnic, Bottle, Flask, and Dash, offer developers the requisite tools to finish their projects.Asynchronous
With the integration of Asyncio library in the Python programming language, asynchronous frameworks have become increasingly popular. Asyncio significantly assists developers to manage a multitude of concurrent connections and has been incorporated into multiple solutions, including Tornado, Sanic, and Growler.
Choosing the Appropriate Python Framework
While making the decision between different Python web frameworks, consider the following points:
The extent and nature of the project
The first step is determining the extent of your project. Full-stack frameworks are a suitable option if you require a multi-feature and multi-module complex system. Alternatively, microframeworks provide a viable solution for smaller-scale projects with fewer resource requirements.
The scalability of the framework
While assessing frameworks for a project, scalability must be a crucial consideration. It is important to evaluate both the vertical and horizontal expansion capabilities of the framework, particularly when multiple servers are required to handle a high volume of website traffic.
A design pattern that comprises multiple views and a single controller
I have used various Python frameworks that implement the Model-View-Controller (MVC) design pattern. This pattern ensures that models, controllers, and views are separated, resulting in easier management of data, storage, and user-friendly display. Consequently, software with better quality and more efficient coding can be developed.
Deciding on the ideal Python framework should not be solely based on the popularity of the Model View Controller (MVC) pattern. Other variations of this pattern, such as Model View Presenter (MVP), Model View Adapter (MVA), and Model View ViewModel (MVVM), may be better suited to your project. Each of these patterns has distinct advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to thoroughly assess which one is most appropriate for your unique requirements.
Model View Presenter (MVP) is an architectural pattern that provides an alternative to traditional software architecture known as Model-View-Controller (MVC). This pattern separates an application into three distinct components: the Model, which governs the data and business logic; the View, which encompasses the user interface; and the Controller, which serves as the intermediary between the Model and the View and handles user input. These three components operate collectively to produce a cohesive system that interacts with the database and user interface effectively.
– Model View Adapter (MVA) is an improvement over the triad approach in the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architecture by using an adapter as an intermediary for communication between the model and the view. Instead of depending on a controller, the MVC architecture employs an adapter to enable the exchange of messages between the model and the view.
This is referred to as “model-view-viewmodel” (MVVM). By separating data retrieval and representation tasks, the View and View Model assume distinct roles. The View is responsible for displaying the data, while the View Model handles operations relating to the data. This division of responsibilities ensures that the data is organised and handled efficiently.
Expenses and Facilities
As a web developer, it is preferable to use the most up-to-date technologies whenever feasible. However, client budgets can often impose limitations. Shared hosting is less expensive but usually comes with restricted add-ons and modules. In contrast, dedicated hosting is superior in nearly every aspect except one: performance.
Installation
The ease of installation is critical when choosing a Python framework. While some frameworks may be efficient and quick to use, the setup process of some can be arduous and may deter even the most dedicated users. This can present difficulties when deploying the application to a live server. Therefore, a framework that can be easily and quickly installed and deployed has a clear advantage.
Python frameworks with simple installation processes
Flask
Web.py:
Resources for Educational Purposes
When determining which framework to choose, it is vital to take into account the learning curve associated with it. Not only should you be familiar with the jargon and terminology associated with the framework, but also the file naming and organisational standards. It is worth noting that some frameworks may be more forgiving of minor inaccuracies, while others may be much less forgiving and result in errors.
In Python, Django has a steeper learning curve compared to the norm. Nevertheless, Flask and FastAPI are two widely used frameworks that offer an easy learning experience and provide an abundance of informative documentation and helpful examples.
Essential Resources Compilation
The majority of developers use templates as their primary library, as they provide a convenient way to save time and effort by eliminating the need to re-write identical lines of code several times. Furthermore, templates can be quickly modified to meet the specific requirements of an application, allowing for greater customisation.
Most Python frameworks offer library support for almost all of the following:
- AJAX
- Authentication
- Authorization
- Caching
- Templating
- Cleaning Up Unclean Data
- Data Verification
- Restructuring a URL is referred to as “mapping” or “rewriting.”
Documentation
It is strongly advised that you look for a Python framework with comprehensive online documentation, including code examples, tutorials, and blog posts. This is because clear and concise documentation fosters the development of efficient problem-solving software. Conversely, little to no documentation can lead to a lack of trust in the community.
Django’s documentation is widely considered to be superior to that of other frameworks due to its consistent updates and clear presentation of concepts in increasing order of complexity. Moreover, Web2Py is advantageous for beginners since it provides valuable community tools, demonstrations, and sample codes. As for the Pyramid licensed framework, there is narrative documentation, community support, as well as limited API documentation available. For a complete guide, please continue reading for instructions in four parts.
Requirements
Regardless of the specifics of your project, it is crucial to determine which Python framework is most suitable for it. Two of the most popular frameworks are Django and Flask, both of which provide a broad range of features to meet any requirements your project may have. Using these frameworks, you can be certain that you have all the necessary tools to create a successful product.
