It takes blood, sweat and at times tears to build a startup. However, there is also one thing that is needed the most while planning to startup. The concept is a tech stack. Now you all must be wondering, what does it mean by ‘Tech Stack’? So, let’s plunge into its definition and essential attributes.
What do you understand by Tech Stack?
Tech Stack is a set of tools that decide the construction and give power to an application. Technology Stack is a compilation of frameworks, applications and programming languages that get applied in developing mobile and web application. In addition to this, structure-wise tech stack incorporates two equivalent elements. First one is ‘Front end’ which is for customer-facing while ‘Back end’ is for legitimate users. Let’s discuss ‘Front end’ and ‘Back end’ in detail.
Back end Tech Stack
Back end can be described as parts of computer programs and applications’ code that allows back end to operate. Furthermore, users can’t gain access to the back end. On the other hand, back end tech stack can be said as the intestines of an application. In any case, where your project has any features besides simple HTML-coded static pages, backend stack is needed to operate effortlessly.
- Frameworks – e.g., Flask, Ruby on Rails and Django
- Server providers – e.g., Nginx, Apache and many more
- Programming languages – e.g., JavaScript, Python, and PHP
- Databases – e.g., MySQL and MongoDB
Structure of back end mainly consists of the following elements:
These essential elements of back end structure are tied in a tight knot to do the synchronized operation. Business logic bounds the back end tech stack. It is designed to give a set of tools for an application functioning.
Front end Tech Stack
The front end consists of all software or hardware which is a part of user interaction. In simple word, we can say that front end is seen by users when they interact with the program. Front end tech stack has the foremost concern of trouble-free user experience, attainable user interface, and clear internal structures.
Important elements in the Front end tech stack
HTML – This element is accountable for the content structuring and placement. Basically, it is backbone which determines the way in which content must organize and exactly where content must be positioned on the page.
CSS – This element decides the way in which content must be represented. It comprises fonts, peculiarities of layout, colors background. In various cases where interactivity takes place, JavaScript (another element of the Front end) manages what goes where, why and how. Libraries control these things. React.js, jQuery, and Zepto.js are some examples of libraries which are fitted into frameworks like Angular, Ember or backbone, etc.
Prevailing Tech Stacks
Although tech stacks are an ever-changing landscape, some stacks like MERN, LAMP and MEAN are the most prevalent technology stacks. Let’s dive into these stacks’ details.
MERN – It is known as the most commonly used technology stacks to build high-quality applications. MERN uses React as front-end technology and it is built on JavaScript.
LAMP – It is the most authentic and accessible technology stacks. Apache is the primary web server, MySQL is the database provider, Linux is an operating system, and PHP is the back-end technology.
MEAN – It is new yet powerful technology stack that combines a modern framework with unique capabilities. It is a proven cutting-edge solution for various developers. It uses Angular JS as the front-end technology, a blend of Express.js and Node.js as the back-end technology and MongoDB as the primary database provider.
- What tech stack does ‘Instacart’ use?
- Server – NGINX
- Server-side framework - Rails
- Database – PostgreSQL, Redis
- Programming languages – Python, Ruby, Objective-C
- Factors need to be considered while choosing the right tech stack for your startup
1. Keep it frisky and uncomplicated
Many startups prefer to go with scaling technology and invest energy and time on the powerful build. And, it goes into vain eventually. So, next time you must consider the easiest solution while building a product from scratch. Word press or Unbounded landing page could be enough for that. You can take the next step by building the product when you feel that your concept will surely work.
2. Based on personal necessity
Choosing the technology stack must be fully dependent on the problem you want to solve. What products should be built for specific users? Does the software run in your intranet? These are some of your personal necessities that provide the base to choose tech stack.
3. Always consider open-source technologies
You must consider open-source solutions while building new software. These open-source technologies save a lot of time and assure you more security. They will make you able to focus on the business related things and your product stands out.
4. Examine the framework ecosystem
Every technology comprises of the ecosystem that is composed of people and tools. There are several factors which must be considered by you. These factors are how big is the ecosystem backing of framework or language, what Google Trends say and many more.
5. Strategies about recruitment
It is a good idea to have those people who are already in their comfort zone despite learning a technology. Moreover, it is an additional benefit to have existing knowledge of the ecosystem. You must bear a few questions in mind, such as will you be able to find enough quality developers for the desired technology or what amount should be enough for them?
Conclusion
Technology stack is the most prominent factor while starting your own business or startup. You must aware of the nitty-gritty of it as it exerts influence on the development of the startup. These above-mentioned points will surely be your guiding light in a gigantic sea of options.
