Planning a Web Application
We, as web developers, are always creating some sort of application that accomplishes the task at hand. A web application can be anything from a simple content management system to a full featured shopping cart. There are a lot of applications already created and free to use that accomplish those tasks. However, there is always a need for a custom implementation.
I do a lot of client work everyday, and a pre-developed solution is never enough. Every client and their needs are different and I am responsible to accommodate them. Sometimes I will use an existing solution but, I would need to modify the code to accomplish what the client asks for. When there is no existing solution the only thing we can do is develop the solution. Here are some pointers when creating a new application:
Future Planning
Planning for future releases/versions will alleviate a lot of pain when adding new features. Ask yourself what you may want to add at a later time and write it down. Be sure to keep your code clean and organized as well. Doing so will help reduce or even eliminate the need to rewrite a section of code.
Create a project plan
Planning for future releases/versions will alleviate a lot of pain when adding new features. Ask yourself what you may want to add at a later time and write it down. Be sure to keep your code clean and organized as well. Doing so will help reduce or even eliminate the need to rewrite a section of code.
Build or Use an existing framework
I personally enjoy creating my own library of tools and using them for every project I create. I know exactly what is going on in the script as well as how to fix any errors. However, a framework such as codeigniter has already taken care of that “dirty work” for you. If you use a third-party framework, be sure you read the documentation. The more you know and understand a framework, the easier it is to build application with it. Whichever works for you, use it and stick to it.
Create a Coding Standard
It is very important as a programmer that you adopt a way of coding that works for all. What I mean is, using the same format for comments, organizing code, visual formatting of code, etc… This will help you, as well as other coders, know what a section of code is for.
Designing the Interface
I am not much of a designer but, interface design is an interest of mine. Designing the interface for your application is very important. Take your time, your users are counting on you! Without a good interface, a user may not be able to use or understand your application or it’s purpose. Start by listing all of the actions that will be available and categorize them at your discretion. Figure out some sort of navigation for a user to easily accomplish those task. One easy way to keep you application simple and easy to use is to keep the interface simple.
Begin Coding
Once you are ready to begin developing the application, you need to start coding! Don’t get too caught up in planning your app or you will never start. An idea is only an idea unless you do something with it. Start small and as development progresses you can tackle the more advanced features.
Creating a web application is no easy task, depending on the type of project. If you have never created a web application I suggest you do so! Start with a simple news management system. Building a simple application will help you learn more about web development as well as add to your experience. It doesn’t matter if it’s already been done before. Experience is very valuable in this industry, and portraying that you know your stuff is equally important.
In closing, What kind of web applications have you created? Did they help you learn more to become a better developer? What do you do when planning a new application?
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Good article. Something I find to be useful in planning a project is putting together a big list of all the craziest ideas possible for the project. This helps get creativity going. However, once that’s done, refining that list, bringing it back to reality, and refining goals helps ensure that the app is going in the right direction. There’s less opportunity for getting partially through a project and saying “Oh wait, we should have thought of this…”.