Podcast Summary
Tools and Custom Solutions: Scott and Wes discussed creating custom tools for their projects and the importance of understanding fluid dynamics for installing in-ground sprinklers. They also mentioned potential solutions for exporting React components as web components using libraries like React Pure and React Transform.
Both Scott and Wes shared their current projects and experiences, and during the discussion, they touched upon the topic of creating and using custom tools. Scott spoke about developing a course on SvelteKit and creating tools like a video uploader for his business. Wes talked about his project of installing in-ground sprinklers and the deep dive into fluid dynamics. They also mentioned the importance of understanding and creating tools to make the development process more efficient. Regarding the question from Stella, they discussed the possibility of exporting React components as web components, but they didn't have a definitive answer. They suggested looking into libraries like React Pure and React Transform for potential solutions. In the podcast, they also highlighted the importance of asking questions and encouraged listeners to submit their queries on the Syntax website. They also mentioned their sponsors, Sanity, LogRocket, and Linode, and shared their positive experiences with these companies. Overall, the episode emphasized the importance of building tools to improve the development process, learning new things, and the value of asking questions.
Creating reusable web components for project to project: Web components enable creating reusable elements, but tools to convert React components may require shipping the original framework
Web components offer a way to create reusable elements that can be taken from project to project, potentially building up a library of components. Tools like StencilJS and react-to-web-components enable converting existing React components into web components, but they may require shipping the original framework with the project. Web components were once seen as the future of web development, but their popularity hasn't fully materialized yet, leaving some wondering about their true potential and the role of frameworks like Stencil in this space.
React vs Web Components: Debating the Future: React and Lit HTML offer similar capabilities but React has more API and community support, while Lit HTML could be the 'React of web components' with custom elements, scope styles, and reactive properties.
React has gained popularity over web components due to its better API and additional capabilities. However, there's ongoing debate about whether web components, like Lit HTML, are just replacing one library with another. Lit HTML, which offers custom elements, scope styles, and reactive properties, could potentially be the "React of web components." Despite being built on top of the web component standard, it's possible to compile Lit code to web components if desired. The web development industry often involves using standards and then building frameworks or helpers on top of them, and this isn't necessarily a bad thing. Some people may find the cost of professional gear and setups prohibitive when starting out in web development, but professionals and businesses often invest in high-quality equipment for productivity and business returns.
A laptop from the last 10 years with 8GB RAM and a Core i5 processor is sufficient for beginners in web development.: A laptop from the last decade with 8GB RAM and a Core i5 processor is adequate for web development beginners, but slower computers can hinder productivity.
For beginners in web development, a laptop from the last 10 years with a minimum of 8GB RAM and a Core i5 processor or equivalent will suffice, as most basic tools can run on these specifications. However, a slower computer can lead to frustrating feedback cycles and slower processing times, which might hinder productivity. For those who prefer Mac OS for web development, a MacBook Air or iMac could be suitable options, although they may come with a higher price tag. Keep in mind that new and more powerful computers with m1 chips are continuously being released, which could offer improved performance.
Investing in a good computer setup for creators and developers: A decent computer setup with a good laptop and large monitor can boost productivity and work experience, recommend an Intel Mac or M1 Mac with at least 8GB RAM and Core i5 processor, consider forming an entity to write off as a business expense, upgrade over time, and avoid unnecessary gear to maintain focus.
Investing in a decent computer setup, including a good laptop and a large monitor, can significantly improve productivity and work experience for creators and developers. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, the potential benefits of a faster and more powerful machine can outweigh the initial cost. An Intel Mac or an M1 Mac, with at least 8GB of RAM and a Core i5 processor, is recommended. If possible, forming an entity to write off the computer as a business expense can make the investment more financially viable. Upgrading over time is also a viable option, as the initial purchase does not have to be the final one. Additionally, avoiding the temptation to buy unnecessary gear or equipment upfront can help maintain motivation and focus on creating content or developing projects. Sanity, a sponsor mentioned in the discussion, can also help save time by automating various tasks and workflows.
Experience of using Sanity CMS for back-end development: Sanity CMS offers ease of use and customizability, making it a versatile choice for back-end development. Python is powerful but choosing it depends on project requirements or proficiency.
Sanity is a versatile and user-friendly Content Management System (CMS) that offers easy setup and customization. The speaker shared his experience of evaluating various back-end frameworks, including Python Flask and Django, and found that Sanity strikes the right balance between ease of use and customizability. Python itself is a powerful language, but the speaker personally prefers to focus on one language to maximize productivity. He recommends choosing Python for back-end development if it aligns with your project requirements or if you're already proficient in it.
Development environments and dependencies: sources of frustration: Maintaining different software versions and dealing with dependencies can be inefficient. Docker containers offer consistent environments, but may not be necessary for small projects.
Development environments and dependencies can be a major source of frustration and inefficiency for developers, especially when dealing with different versions of software or using tools like Docker. The speaker shared his personal experiences with these issues in JavaScript and Python communities, and the challenges of maintaining different versions of Node.js and dealing with NPM installations. He also mentioned the potential benefits of using Docker containers to create consistent development environments, but shared his own negative experiences with the tool due to slow downloads and installation issues. Ultimately, the decision to use Docker or not depends on the size and scope of the project, and the number of people working on it. For small projects, it may be considered over-engineering, but for larger projects with more team members, it can be a valuable tool for ensuring consistent environments and streamlined development processes.
Managing Multiple Technologies: Coping with the Challenges: Feeling overwhelmed by managing multiple technologies? Seek support, improve time management, and consider using tools like Docker and error services for streamlined debugging.
Having multiple technologies to manage in a single role can be challenging and may lead to feeling overwhelmed, especially when juggling different programming languages and tools in the same day. The speaker shared his experience of working with various languages like React, Ruby, and dot net, and feeling the strain of constantly switching between them while also dealing with meetings. He mentioned the concept of "golden handcuffs," where a well-paying job can be difficult to leave despite the mental toll it takes. The speaker suggested that better time management could help, but acknowledged that it might be a natural progression for developers as they advance in their careers. He also highlighted the importance of seeking support, such as counseling, during challenging times. Additionally, the discussion touched on the use of Docker for managing different applications and the potential benefits of using error and exception services like LogRocket to streamline debugging. Overall, the conversation emphasized the importance of finding balance and effective strategies for managing the demands of a complex technical role.
Managing stress in the workplace: External vs Internal: Recognize the sources of stress, have open conversations with managers about workload, and reevaluate personal goals for internal stress. Chromium and WebKit are significant browser rendering engines, and understanding their differences can optimize testing.
It's essential to recognize and address the sources of stress in your work environment. Modern tools and heavy workloads can contribute to stress, especially during challenging times like a global pandemic. It's crucial to distinguish between external pressures from managers and internal pressures from personal expectations. If the stress comes from external sources, having an open conversation with your managers about your workload could be beneficial. If it's self-imposed, it might be necessary to reevaluate personal goals and priorities. Additionally, browser rendering engines have evolved significantly, with Chromium (Blink) and WebKit being the major players. Chromium is the browser base, while Blink is the JavaScript engine. Understanding these differences can help in optimizing desktop browser testing. Remember, giving yourself some slack and acknowledging the unique challenges we face in today's world can go a long way in managing stress and maintaining productivity.
Exploring Different Browsers and Server-Side Rendering Frameworks: Browsers have unique features and inconsistencies, but server-side rendering frameworks like Ruby on Rails, Laravel, Python, and React offer solutions. Server-side rendering in React can be challenging due to hydration, but Netflix uses it without. Companies' tech stacks change, but the abundance of choices is a charm.
There are various browsers, each with their unique features and inconsistencies, but the industry has come a long way in addressing these issues. IE 11 runs on Chrome, Safari uses WebKit, and Firefox stands alone. For those new to the industry, learning server-side rendered apps, there are numerous options like Ruby on Rails, Laravel, Python, and even React. Server-side rendering in React is relatively easy, but hydration can be a challenge. Netflix is known to use server-side rendered React with no hydration. Companies' tech stacks can change, causing confusion, but the abundance of choices is part of the industry's charm. If you're interested in learning more about traditional server-side rendered apps, consider checking out my learn no.com course, which focuses on this approach.
Server Rendering vs Client-Side Rendering and Code Prediction Plugins: Explore server rendering with Express and Jade, client-side rendering with React, and code prediction plugins like Kite and Tap 9. Choose based on individual preferences and project requirements. TypeScript's static typing and strong type checking offer similar benefits to prop types.
Server rendered apps are still popular in web development despite the trend towards client-side rendering. Developers are using tools like Express and Jade for server rendered HTML, and some are even going back to entirely server rendered apps. Regarding code prediction plugins, there are popular options like Kite and Tap 9 that analyze your code to suggest completions. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. For instance, Kite is known for its AI-powered suggestions, but some users have reported issues with uninstalling the extension. Versus Code's built-in IntelliSense is another option that many developers find satisfactory, especially when using TypeScript. The order of suggestions and the availability of JSDoc TypeScript documentation in libraries can significantly improve the user experience. However, there's no need to use additional plugins like Kite all the time, as the built-in TypeScript checking in Versus Code often provides sufficient autocompletion. As for the use of prop types in TypeScript in a React project, the consensus is that it's not necessary. While prop types can help catch errors during development, TypeScript's static typing and strong type checking provide similar benefits. Overall, the choice between server rendered apps, code prediction plugins, and prop types in TypeScript depends on individual preferences and project requirements. It's essential to explore different options and fine-tune settings to optimize your development experience.
Using a CDN for managing and delivering small audio files: CDNs like DigitalOcean and AWS offer efficient bandwidth usage, caching, and cost savings for managing and delivering small audio files. Backblaze can be used in conjunction with a CDN for storage.
For managing and delivering small audio files for an app, using a Content Delivery Network (CDN) is recommended. This approach allows for efficient bandwidth usage, caching, and cost savings. The speaker suggests considering DigitalOcean or AWS, both of which offer CDN services, and warns against the potential complexity and costs associated with AWS. He also mentions that Backblaze, while not a CDN itself, can be used in conjunction with a CDN for storage. The speaker emphasizes that this approach is simpler than it seems and doesn't require significant server processing or generation of files on the fly. He also mentions that AWS is likely to be the most cost-effective option due to its proximity to the metal and lack of additional features. The speaker shares his personal experience with using Backblaze for hosting code downloads and receiving complaints about slow download speeds, and mentions that Transistor, a podcast platform, also hosts their MP3 files on Backblaze.
Linode's Affordable Object Storage and New Podcast Recommendation: Linode offers predictable pricing, free transfers, and Amazon S3 API compatibility for affordable and convenient large file hosting. Try Linode with a $100 credit using linode.com/forward/syntax. New podcast 'A Death in Crypto Land' explores data security and shady business dealings in the crypto world.
Linode, a cloud hosting and Linux hosting company, offers object storage with predictable pricing, free transfers, and an API compatible with Amazon S3. This makes it an affordable and convenient option for hosting and transferring large files, such as audio files. Linode also provides a $100 credit for new users who sign up using the link linode.com/forward/syntax. Additionally, Wes Bos recommended a new podcast called "A Death in Crypto Land" from the BBC, which investigates the mysterious death of the CEO of Canada's largest cryptocurrency exchange and the implications for the people whose money he controlled. The podcast is only two episodes in but has already proven to be fascinating, with themes of data security and shady business dealings. Finally, Wes shared his appreciation for Adobe Illustrator for creating sticker designs, despite its complexity.
Affinity Designer and Affinity Photo: Affordable Alternatives to Adobe's Creative Cloud: Speaker shares their experience of using Affinity Designer for vector editing and Affinity Photo for raster editing, both offering powerful capabilities at a lower cost than Adobe's Creative Cloud and superior performance in Affinity Photo.
Affinity Designer and Affinity Photo offer powerful design and editing capabilities, respectively, at a fraction of the cost of Adobe's Creative Cloud subscription. The speaker shared their personal experience of being overwhelmed by Illustrator and Sketch for certain tasks, such as working with grunge textures and large numbers of paths. They found Affinity Designer to be an excellent alternative, combining the strengths of both Illustrator (vector editing) and Photoshop (raster editing). Affinity Photo, on the other hand, was described as a Photoshop-like application with superior performance and no subscription fees. The speaker emphasized the ease of use and affordability of these applications, making them valuable additions to their creative toolkit. They also mentioned their personal experience with creating content for Affinity products and recommended checking out Level Up Tutorials for learning these tools.
Wes Bos releases free JavaScript reference guide: Wes Bos' comprehensive JavaScript textbook covers essential topics, serves as a quick lookup resource, and is now free on his website.
Wes Bos, a well-known web developer and educator, has recently released a free JavaScript reference guide consisting of 85 interconnected pages. This comprehensive textbook covers all the essential topics of JavaScript, including functions, objects, scope, hoisting, closures, case switch, looping, and if statements. It serves as an excellent resource for developers who want to quickly look up specific JavaScript concepts. The project, which took over a year to develop, is now available for free on Wes Bos' website, wesbos.com/forward/javascript. This resource is an invaluable addition to the JavaScript community, providing a convenient and accessible way to learn and review JavaScript concepts. If you're a JavaScript developer or just starting your journey, this reference guide is definitely worth checking out.
