Why we chose Vue.js

Choosing the Right JavaScript Framework: A Deep Dive into Vue.js

1. Introduction: Unraveling the JavaScript Framework Conundrum

In a recent conversation with an experienced interviewee, we delved into the intricacies of selecting a JavaScript framework. The discussion highlighted the common tendency for developers to be swayed by the hype surrounding major software companies’ releases. The question arises: Is adopting a framework just because it’s endorsed by a successful company the right approach? In this exploration, we aim to understand the considerations behind the decision to use Vue.js at GitLab.

2. Vue.js: Embracing Simplicity and Ease of Use

One of the primary factors that led GitLab to choose Vue.js is its emphasis on simplicity and ease of use. Vue.js enables the team to write clean and straightforward JavaScript, making the onboarding process smooth. The readability of its source code and comprehensive documentation eliminates the need for external libraries. Whether you prefer vanilla Vue.js or opt for additional plugins like vue-resource, integrating Vue.js with existing code is remarkably straightforward. Unlike other frameworks, Vue.js avoids making assumptions beyond anticipating data changes, providing a balance between assistance and user control.

3. Understanding Vue.js: A Democratic Approach to Development

Comparing Vue.js to other frameworks, the analogy of socialism emerges. Developers maintain control over their projects, while Vue.js serves as a reliable safety net, offering a balance between structure and flexibility. Unlike the anarchy of Backbone or the dictatorship of Angular, Vue.js empowers developers to lead while providing essential support to ensure efficient programming and minimal DOM-related challenges.

4. Vue.js in Action: Code Efficiency at GitLab

GitLab’s decision to adopt Vue.js stems from the realization that it translates to less code for solving complex problems. Transitioning from jQuery, where more code was required to address each issue, Vue.js allowed the team to streamline their solutions. A practical example involves displaying the state of a GitLab Issue as open or closed. With jQuery, it took around 30 lines of code involving multiple classes and manual DOM querying. In Vue.js, achieving the same functionality requires only one line of JavaScript and minimal additional HTML attributes, exemplifying the framework’s efficiency.

5. Evan You’s Vision: Beyond Code Excellence

Vue.js’s creator, Evan You, understands that building a remarkable framework extends beyond writing great code. It encompasses excellent documentation, a thriving community, a library of supporting plugins, and responsive feedback loops based on user input. Vue.js excels in all these aspects, making it the preferred choice at GitLab. As we conclude this exploration, we invite you to delve deeper into the reasons behind the adoption of Vue.js by watching the “Why We Chose Vue.js” webcast.

This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the multifaceted considerations that drive the selection of a JavaScript framework. From the allure of simplicity and ease of use to the democratic nature of Vue.js’s development approach and its real-world application at GitLab, the journey unfolds, providing valuable insights for developers navigating the complex landscape of JavaScript frameworks.