What to Look for When Choosing Your Frameworks?

Dissecting PHP Frameworks

A PHP Framework is a basic platform that allows us to develop web applications. In other words, it provides structure. By using a PHP Framework, you will end up saving loads of time, stopping the need to produce repetitive code, and you’ll be able to build applications rapidly (RAD). Without a PHP Framework in place, it gets much more difficult to produce applications since you’ll have to repeatedly code a lot of PHP. You’ll also have to execute the connection between your database and whatever application you develop from scratch. Meanwhile, using a ** PHP Framework makes it easier ** for you to ensure this connection.

PHP operates on the Model View Controller (MVC) fundamentals. MVC is an architectural pattern featured in various popular programming languages which breaks apart your domain logic from your user interface. Thedomain logic is the function that handles information exchange between your database and your user interface. Therefore you’re able to modify the domain logic and most importantly for designers, the user interface separately. This removes a lot of confusion and simplifies the entire developmental process. When we refer to MVC we generally perceive it as this: The M stands for the raw data, the V (view/user interface)represents what’s actually being viewed, and C (controller) is in fact the domain logic as seen above. Once you’re able to make sense of how MVC works, then PHP Frameworks become much more clearer and easier to use.

What to Look for When Choosing Your Frameworks?

When you’re searching for a PHP Framework it can get a bit confusing with what you need your framework to do, and with what your framework already comes bundled with. Not every PHP Framework offers the ** same support for databases, communities, and an easy to follow user guide. ** That may be fine if you’re looking for something extremely simple. However, if you find a PHP Framework that you’re comfortable with, there should be a variety of options and advantages that come along with it.

Database Support

Database support is very important. For example, CodeIgniter supports MySQL, Oracle, and SQLite, while the Kohana framework doesn’t support Oracle or SQLite. Depending on which database you prefer to use or choose for your project at hand, you will also need to consider whether your database server supports this database type.

Community Support

Your framework should have a strong community, not just in terms of size but also in activity and helpfulness. Even if it’s a small community, as long as you’re able to find support, then that’s a plus point.

Documentation Support

You should also be weary of frameworks that don’t have any documentation and absolutely no user guide. Make sure that your PHP Framework has good documentation that’s kept up-to-date, and that the user guide its relatively easy to follow.

Model View Controller Architecture

Your framework should also use the Model View Controller architecture. If you haven’t, take a quick look above at the previous section and see why. Most of the good frameworks you’ll find also offer libraries, plug-ins, helpers, and extensions. It’s good to find a framework that has at least two of these options.

Common Mistakes Made When Choosing a Framework

Anyone can make mistakes when choosing a framework, however, we must learn how to limit these mistakes so that we’re able to develop web applications that run more smoothly. When choosing your framework, make sure that it isn’t small enough for it to not offer any support. Small or inconclusive frameworks are usually created by individuals whose knowledge of PHP is limited. All the above mistakes could cause various issues to arise with your applications and ultimately prevent them from running properly.

Utilizing a PHP framework that’s easy to use and understand is vital, unless you’re a pretty advanced PHP programmer. You should always ** make sure that your database and web server is compatible ** with the framework you’ve chosen. This is a common mistake especially when we find a framework that we believe is perfect, and because of the excitement we may forget to check its technical requirements. PHP 4.3 is the minimum, and PHP 5 along with its later versions work fine as well. When it comes to MySQL versions 4.0, 4.1.xand 5.0 are all supported.

If the above requirements aren’t in place, you will not be getting the best performance possible out of your chosen framework. Another common mistake is derailing from the recommended installation process of your PHP Framework. If you setup your framework in the wrong way, you’ll have more problems at hand than you can probably fix. Keep your eye on the prize and take your sweet time setting up your framework. Follow your frameworks instructions thoroughly, and avoid distractions.

Convention Over Configuration

Some of the PHP frameworks offer convention over configuration. This helps the developers decrease the number of decisions needed to be made in order to gain simplicity, and at the same time not lose any of the flexibility. For convention, it comes with a set of rules that the developers need to follow in order to achieve the auto magic configuration.

When Should We Use PHP Framework?

There’s so many possibilities with PHP Frameworks that it really depends on the developer. If you’re an advanced PHP programmer, you’re more than likely to use a framework different from one who’s a beginner. PHP frameworks help eliminate repetitive coding and systemizes our building process. If and when you’re working on an application that can benefit from this building process, then a PHP framework can definitely be used. PHP Frameworks are a powerful tool for an even more powerful programming language which helps you tweak your code in an organized and clean manner. If this is not something you’re looking for, then working with a framework is more than likely not for you.