Bootstrap Framework: The Web Development Tool of the Future
In an era marked by the dawn of the digital revolution, the web design and development industry has steadily begun to witness a massive spurt of growth. Most individuals and organizations have started deploying web-enabled applications in order to effectively communicate with users who are located across multiple browsers, devices and platforms. As a result, streamlining the tools and techniques that strengthen the task of front-end development has become all the more important.
However, with improving technology, the field of web development has begun to transform everyday. New programs, better codes, and superior functions are now being introduced on a regular basis. In such a scenario, how should a web developer ensure that the user experience is not compromised? How should web designers ascertain that their site remains seamless, accessible, and consistent, irrespective of the gadget that it is viewed in?
Precisely to address issues like these, the highly customisable and feature-rich Bootstrap framework has been devised.
What Is Bootstrap Framework?
To put it simply, Bootstrap framework is an open-source framework that uses hypertext markup language (HTML), cascading style sheets (CSS), javascript (JS) templates, and other forms of reusable code to create responsive, user-friendly and mobile-first web projects.
Originally called Twitter Blueprint, Bootstrap framework was first designed by Mark Otto and Jacob Thornton at Twitter in 2011. The duo intended to create an adaptable interface that could reduce internal inconsistencies and lower web maintenance burdens. After its first successful run, Otto & Thornton realized that Bootstrap framework didn’t just accomplish its predefined objectives but it also helped web designers fix web development issues while saving an immense amount of time and effort. Consequently, it was launched as an open-source framework which could easily be accessed by everyone, everywhere.
At present, millions of website designers across the world use the Bootstrap framework to construct well-performing, functional, and flawless websites. This has been possible because the basic Bootstrap web design is updated from time to time. Currently, Bootstrap version 4 is being used to build efficient web applications. Furthermore, Bootstrap version 5 – with improved features and better styling – is expected to be launched sometime next year.
Why Use Bootstrap?
With Bootstrap CSS, HTML, and JS formats available for free, this excellent framework has become an obvious choice for most web developers. Nevertheless, its simplicity and pricing are not the only reasons why Bootstrap framework is considered to be a beneficial interface. Some features that make Bootstrap so critically advantageous are:
Component-Rich
The Bootstrap framework is extremely rich in components. It contains drop-down menus, progress bars, navigation buttons, image classes, thumbnails, media objects, and a number of other eye-catching features. This means that you get to design your website in accordance with your specific needs by tacking these components onto your page instantly. Using the Bootstrap web design functionality is as simple as that!
Beginner-Friendly
Whether you are designing a personal website or a business page, if you are a beginner, the Bootstrap framework will take care of all your requirements. It will allow you to choose from a wide variety of pre-designed themes, templates, and tools so that you can build your website without having to worry about the efficiency, loadability, and relevance of your design. Nonetheless, you will need to possess basic knowledge of Bootstrap CSS, HTML, and JS in order to use this framework appropriately.
Responsive
Almost 83% of consumers around the world view web pages on different sets of devices. This means that each website has to be designed in such a way that it remains compatible with every type of screen that it is viewed on. The only way to trigger this congruence is by giving your website the power to adapt and adjust. With the help of its grid, images, and content, Bootstrap framework does exactly that. It builds a responsive website which ensures that the UX/UI remains completely flawless.
Detailed
The code documentation hosted in the Bootstrap framework is tremendously explicit and detailed. Each code sample is defined and explained to facilitate full understanding and implementation. To top it, the J-Query plugin of Bootstrap web design further enhances the cause of comprehensive descriptions. It offers easy solutions for issues like web transition, modal popups, image carousels, etc., so that you can easily grasp different ways to build interactivity.
Customized
As per a report, about 39% of users will stop engaging with a website if it takes too long to load. This implies that you will have to be very careful while customizing your website because any extraneous component addition will lead to an immediate decrease in speed. Bootstrap framework makes certain that you don’t have to face this dilemma. You can simply add or eliminate the tools you want based on your precise programming requirements. All you have to do is create a custom Bootstrap CSS file and tweak it before putting it in the original HTML code.
Apart from the aforementioned, Bootstrap framework is also known for its extensive support community. Being an open-source design, it permits third-party individuals to render prompt assistance in case you get stuck while navigating the choppy waters of web design and development.
Are There Any Disadvantages of Using Bootstrap Framework?
Although Bootstrap framework is an exceptionally valuable resource, it also harbors certain disadvantages that can prevent developers from properly utilizing its services. These drawbacks include:
- The syntax of Bootstrap CSS is often found to be a little confusing.
- The large functionalities of Bootstrap web design can turn it bulky.
- Without an understanding of the basics, beginners might find it complex.
- The predefined Bootstrap code is merely a recycled version of the original.
However, these probable disadvantages can be overcome by using simple applications like Bootstrap studio. Being desktop-based, this app comes with a large variety of in-built features that can help you make website prototypes in a quick and effective way.
The Way Forward
With changing times, the importance and significance of Bootstrap framework is only going to rise exponentially. By allowing designers and developers to create websites with a minimal amount of effort, this framework is likely to be used across various business verticals. Such expanded scope when coupled with a futuristic approach, will certainly lend Bootstrap framework, the power to seamlessly integrate, assimilate, and construct.
As a beginner in the field of web development, if learning about the foundational principles of Bootstrap has been among your career goals, you can register for a comprehensive course here.
