Programming is a very essential element of development. Front-end development in particular has come a long way as technology has evolved. Nowadays, many developers criticize front-end tools, believing they are too simple in their functionality. However, things can become more difficult with technical recruiting since developers try to create visually appealing apps that contain many features with those ‘simplistic’ development tools.
The internet’s arrival in the 1990s significantly increased web development. Most websites were built from the ground up using JavaScript for the interaction capabilities, HTML for layout structure, and CSS for stylistic components. The ability to create asynchronous applications then came about with the release of Ajax in the 2000s. This eliminated the need to reload sites during development and updates.
In 2006, jQuery was introduced to the public. It was a JavaScript library that was lightweight, fast, and made it easier for developers to manipulate the app’s elements. jQuery continues to be popular in modern app development.
The Use of SPAs
Single-Page Applications (SPAs) load content within one page instead of reloading individual pages. The loading structure of SPAs significantly increased performance speed and user experiences. They provide a simpler process to navigate the app by using a linear UX system. Offline capabilities are possible as well due to its local cache feature.
There are many tools to help developers create SPAs, some of which include React.js (created by Facebook) and Angular (created by Google). Those tools in particular are preferred over the majority of other frameworks. The complexities of such frameworks are complicated and extensive, requiring additional developmental tools to improve frontend development.
Is Front-End Development Fading in Popularity?
Only about a third of developers have a specialty in front-end development. Despite this, there is still a demand for front-end developers because technology is always evolving. Programming functions at the foundational level of all technology, which likely will mean front-end developers remain needed. In order to stay that way, they must continuously be on top of the latest tools, languages, and other technologies. The speed at which technology transforms is exceptional, meaning all areas of development suffer the same kind of demand in skillsets and experience.
Front-End Developers, Code Testing, & the Process of Recruiting
It’s important during the technical recruitment process to be able to evaluate that the candidates possess the most up-to-date knowledge and experience. Tools such as code testing have become available over the years to assist with finding the right candidates. These are skill-based assessments that can look at skills in virtually any area of the tech industry, as well as how experienced a developer is with front-end tech stacks. Other types of code tests include language-agnostic tests, knowledge of libraries, and experience with various frameworks.
Progressively, skill assessments could be customized to specific companies or positions. There are also many pre-made code tests available. The right code tests, alongside other elements in the recruitment process, can not only help recruiters find the best candidate for a company but also successfully bring on that candidate as an employee.