Originally posted on 05/29/2019
The prettiest of websites are a joy to behold. No question. What happens, though, when a user wants to obtain some information out of that site? Does it provide the correct information on time? That's where having solid back-end functionality makes all the difference.
What are Front and Back End Web Development?
Think of front-end development as the form of the application. The front end of any web application involves how the user interacts with the software and what they see when they view the page. Front End uses the languages of HTML, CSS, and Javascript.
The back-end development is all about the functionality - capturing, storing, and processing data then serving it up for front-end use. The user will make a request, and the back end fulfills it. It's responsible for performing essential tasks, including business logic, calculations, performance and database interactions, etc. It does the "heavy lifting" for a website. The languages that a back end developer work with include PH, Ruby, and Python.
Two Examples of Back End Processes
When you book a flight online you interact with the back end. The information that you've entered is stored in a database that was created on a remote server. It's the back end that is searching for which flights - among the many thousands of possibilities - are available and how much they will cost. The back end then "serves" this information to the front end to display on the page.
Similarly, many people search for things to buy online using Amazon, Etsy, or eBay. The user will type in their search. The front end delivers this search to the back end to search the database and return a list of results. The back end sends the list to the front end for the person to view. If the user wants to make changes, the process restarts. In this way, there is a constant dialogue between the front and back end to run a process then deliver and display what the user wants.
Key Takeaway of Back End Web Development
The majority of the code needed to make the site perform correctly must be done on the site's back end. When an error occurs, developers know to look beyond the breakdown in displayed functionality to the deeper issue. If a particular web application keeps running slowly, crashing, and dishing out errors to its users, it's more than likely that the problems are on the back end.
Work with Experienced Backend Development Professionals
It's important to design the back end for optimal use and performance. Good back end development improves user satisfaction with the site, aids in brand trust and development, and maximizes productivity for the user base and the enterprise in general. Ensure your backend development is on track by working with Progressive Data Solutions. Give our team a call today to find out how we can help your business succeed.