How apps are made
What pieces you need to get your app built
There are four main components that apply to all mobile or web applications. A housing analogy describes it best
Frontend (The Visible House):
Just like how a house has different rooms with specific purposes (kitchen, bedroom, living room), the frontend has different views that user interacts with.
The paint colors and decorations are like the styling (CSS) that make the app look pretty.
Windows and doors are like navigation buttons that allow users to load new experiences.
Light switches and thermostats are like buttons and interactive elements that let users control functionality.
Backend (The Structure):
Like load-bearing walls support the house, the backend handles the core application logic.
Just as electrical wiring connects appliances and switches, APIs connect the frontend to the backend.
The plumbing system that moves water is similar to how the backend routes data.
HVAC systems that regulate temperature are like backend services that monitor
Security systems protect the house just as backend authentication protects user data.
Database (The Pantry/Storage):
Similarly to how different types of food is organized (canned goods, fresh produce, spices), databases have structured tables and schemas.
Inventory management in the pantry is like database commands (Create, Read, Update, Delete)
Just as you have different storage conditions (room temperature vs refrigerated), databases have different types optimized for various data needs.
The organization system (labels, shelving) represent database indexing and optimization.
Storage capacity planning is important both for pantries and databases.
Hosting (The Land):
Just as land needs proper zoning and permits, hosting needs appropriate infrastructure and configurations.
The foundation must be solid, just like hosting needs reliable servers and networking.
Different climates require different building considerations, just as different hosting environments (cloud, on-premise) have unique requirements.
Property maintenance is like server maintenance and updates, like when a website is down in the middle of the night expectedly.
Utilities (water, electricity) coming to the property are like network connectivity and bandwidth for hosting.
There are other components to building an app, such as Design, Version Control Systems and Testing Infrastructure. But knowing these four will take you far.