DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BACKEND AND FRONTEND APP DEVELOPMENT
October 3, 2022
Samantha Jones
Mobile app development entails a variety of processes. Two of the processes that are a part of programming are backend and frontend app development. If you aim to develop an app for your business, ensure you understand the difference between frontend and backend app development.
BACKEND APP DEVELOPMENT:
The backend is the server’s side of the application. An application’s backend does not interact with the users directly. However, it is vital to the performance and functionality of the software. Good backend programming is essential to ensure that the front-end works properly.
A backend developer is responsible for the following:
- Creating libraries
- Managing
- Write API, i.e., a set of codes that enable the transmission of data from one software to another
- Removing any bugs
Basically, the backend is responsible for storing and organizing data and for everything that happens ‘behind the stage’ in software. Accordingly, the backend developer needs technical skills to ensure the final product is a well-functioning program.
FRONTEND APP DEVELOPMENT:
Frontend development of software entails programming the app’s aspects that the user would directly interact with. For example, it would include the programming of a user interface. Frontend developers are supposed to work on the color palette, animations, font, structure, navigation, and so on.
This aspect of programming is obviously very crucial. Developers working on the frontend aspect of the program need to make sure that the application is:
- easy to navigate and use
- well-performing
- responsive
- attractive
- compatible with all sorts of devices
Remember, frontend software development is quite different from app designing, i.e., UI/UX designing. A UI/UX designer provides a design to the developer, who incorporates that design into the software.
Front-end development is quite technical, and you need to hire a professional with expertise in such programming.
Since the backend and front end, both, are quite technical, you should hire one of the best mobile app development companies because they may have the expertise required to do the entire job efficiently. Make sure your programming service is well-equipped and knows the programming languages required.
PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
Languages used for frontend and backend software development are different. However, the languages used for each of the two aspects of the software are compatible with one another, enabling the app to function properly.
BACKEND APP PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES:
There are a number of programming languages used for the backend. The most common ones are:
Other tools used for backend development:
These tools enable the developers to store and organize data, enabling the software to function properly.
FRONTEND APP PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES:
The most common frontend programming languages are:
Other tools used for frontend development:
- Django
- jQuery
- JavaScript Libraries
BACKEND AND FRONTEND SIMULTANEOUSLY MAKE THE APP FUNCTION
The backend and front-end are constantly interacting with one another to ensure the smooth functioning of the software. For example, when users are operating on the app and choose to buy something, they often click on the option that says ‘proceed to payment.’ While all this is happening via the frontend aspect of software development, the successful purchase process won’t be possible without a responsive backend system. So, the whole process of checking out, deducting money from the card, and processing the order happens via the backend aspect of the software.
Backend and Front end software development are essential aspects of the app. You can’t just focus on one and ignore the other. You must ensure that your front-end and back-end developers are well-coordinated and understand the ultimate goals. This can be done through:
- Good Communication between you and the developers
- Proper documentation by everyone involved in the development process.
FULL-STACK APP DEVELOPMENT
Some of the best mobile app development companies offer full-stack development; they provide you with front-end and back-end software development services and other important services such as app designing and marketing.
You may come across developers claiming to have full-stack programming expertise. But since software development has become so technical, choosing one of the best mobile app development companies is always better. Such companies often have a whole team of developers proficient in each aspect of software development, making the entire process convenient for you.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
If you are looking for a mobile app developer, you must keep in mind the following:
- The role of backend and frontend developers is equally important
- If you hire only one developer, they must have technical knowledge about frontend and backend developer
- Since programming has become too technical, it is difficult for an individual to hold expertise in both; the backend and front-end.
- A UI/UX designer is not your front-end developer. You may need to hire an app designer to create your application’s user interface and user experience design. The front-end developer will incorporate that design into the system.
- Since building software entails various processes, communication among all developers, designers, and managers is vital so that everyone is on the same page.
Accordingly, investing in the best mobile app development company is only smart. They would have all the skills you need for app development, and you won’t have to deal with the hassle of coordinating between all the different people you would hire for app development. All you would be required to do is to communicate your requirements to the company, and they’ll do everything else for you.