Advocating for JavaScript: Why I Chose It for Web Development
Written on
Chapter 1: The Case for JavaScript
It's not often that an employee steps up to challenge a client's wishes, but that's precisely what I did. My client requested a website built with Python, but I firmly believed that JavaScript was the more suitable choice. Below, I outline the reasons I presented to persuade him to opt for JavaScript in web development.
1. Accessibility for Beginners
The first aspect to consider is the ease with which newcomers can learn JavaScript. For those with previous programming experience, grasping the fundamentals of JavaScript can typically be accomplished over a weekend. The language allows for multiple programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and functional styles, enabling beginners to adopt the approach they find most comfortable.
Additionally, no specialized editor is required at the outset; you can simply use a browser's console to execute code snippets. While this method may not suffice for complex projects, it is adequate for initial learning.
2. A Thriving Community
Another strong point in favor of JavaScript is its extensive community. I have yet to encounter a problem that hasn't been discussed or resolved within the community forums. The wealth of resources available—including tutorials, guides, and professional training—ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether seeking free resources or paid courses.
Moreover, the JavaScript community actively contributes to the ecosystem by developing numerous libraries and tools.
3. Abundance of Libraries
This brings us to the next advantage: the vast number of libraries available. The active community has led to the creation of an extensive collection of libraries, although not all are of high quality. However, the sheer volume means there’s likely a library tailored to almost any requirement. A quick Google search usually yields several ready-made solutions for specific problems.
4. Flexible Complexity Levels
This point may require some clarification. In contrast to languages like Java or C#, where even simple tasks necessitate the creation of a class and additional configuration, JavaScript allows for more direct coding. For instance, to perform a simple addition like 2+2, you can simply write that expression in JavaScript, which is sufficient to create valid code.
Conversely, for more extensive applications, you have the option to structure your code and utilize comprehensive IDEs, configuration files, and more, depending on your needs.
5. Independence from Vendor Lock-in
Unlike programming with C#, which often relies heavily on the ASP.NET framework, JavaScript does not have a singular dominant framework. This versatility allows developers to choose from a variety of frameworks, such as React, Angular, or Vue.js, and to mix and match smaller libraries to create a custom solution.
This freedom ensures that I do not feel confined to any one vendor’s solution, and the rapidly changing landscape means there is always the potential for new, innovative libraries to emerge.
In Conclusion
These insights come from my experiences as a professional JavaScript developer. I primarily use JavaScript as an essential component of web applications and am currently developing a project in this language, providing me with a clear understanding of its capabilities.
Chapter 2: Educational Resources
Incorporating additional learning materials can greatly enhance one's understanding of JavaScript.
The first video, "Apache Tomcat: Enabling Scripting Languages in JSPs - Rony G. Flatscher," delves into integrating scripting languages into JavaServer Pages, offering insights into the capabilities of Java technologies.
The second video, "Tips And Tricks In JavaScript Part I," provides valuable strategies and techniques for effectively leveraging JavaScript in your projects.