What is a framework?
Software developers set the course at the beginning of a project. A framework for the later programming proves to be helpful. A framework creates solid foundations in the form of “pre-programming”.
Framework structures: libraries and classification criteria
In program and software development, the term framework does not refer to a program, but to a framework determined by basic building blocks. Classic areas of application for frameworks are applications in the area of object-oriented programming . Libraries are used for structuring on the one hand, and classification criteria on the other. These include, for example, runtime environments.
In this way, the software developer receives a programming framework that provides him with valuable services. Economically relevant factors when using Framework are the savings in time and the associated savings in the production costs of a program.
Framework using the example of website programming
The framework functionality can be aptly described using the example of programming a website. Websites are based on structures. A typical component is the display language used. If the choice is made in favor of HTML as the display language, the structure established with it is a relevant feature for related and recurring areas of application.
If the defined website is to be used as the basis for the website of an online shop, the work of the website developer is made significantly easier. The code for the consecutive pages to be produced is based on similar code sequences. At this point, the economic advantage – time and cost – of a framework becomes clear: All the relevant components for the website of the online shop are brought together to form a framework.
This structured programming framework only needs to be supplemented with very specific input codes in the course of programming. The advantage, due to significant savings in production time and manufacturing costs, is obvious.
Framework, CMS or self-programming?
At the beginning of a project, developers ask themselves how they should proceed from a technical and economic perspective. The decision falls between three options:
Framework: The programming of a website on the basis of framework structures is considered the “supreme discipline”. The demands on the professionalism of the developer are relatively high. Programming professionals, however, appreciate the high degree of flexibility and the availability of sophisticated structural features.
CMS (Content Management System): Common features are often already available. The non-existent can be dealt with with the help of plug-ins. The free availability of solutions is often offset by deficiencies in plug-ins with exactly the right content. As a consequence, the developer then has to program himself.
Self-programming: Self-programmed pages require not only knowledge but also a lot of time. There is a risk that errors will be recognized too late. In addition, security vulnerabilities are often overlooked.
Frameworks for individual problems
The basic building blocks contained in the framework influence the design structure of a program. Abstract and concrete classes from the portfolio of basic modules support the developer significantly in the form of design samples for his program applications.
The “framework types” listed here give an impression of the many possible uses in structured software development:
Web frameworks: tailored to the development and programming of dynamic websites and web applications.
Application frameworks: as a programming framework for applications with specific structures and functions.
Component frameworks: with a special environment framework for programming and final integration of program packages.
Coordination frameworks: with the possibility of setting up device interactions, i.e. a sequence of process steps to be controlled.
Domain frameworks: as a programming framework for defined problem areas.
Class Frameworks: with the task of combining “classes” and “methods”, in the sense of optimal support for the programmer in the implementation of specific applications.
Test frameworks: for testing developed software programs. Classic examples are “Selenium” for testing web applications and “JUnit” for testing modules.
A framework brings professionals quickly to their goals
Against the background of these explanations it can be summarized: Even programming is not recommended under the premises of “productivity” and “risk of error”. For many development projects, implementation based on CMS is a good choice.
When it comes to special topics that are individually tailored, the programming framework provided by the framework is the first choice. The chances of an optimal result increase with the qualification of the software developer.
