Parse BaaS

The conventional procedure for app development is challenging. It requires the writing of codes for both the backend and frontend function of the app. However, with the advent of Parse, the complicated coding is no longer required. This article introduces Parse to newcomers and explains the various benefits of using Parse backend for app development.

What is Parse?

Parse is one of the leading opensource Backend as a Service (BaaS) framework in the world today. Parse was acquired by Facebook in 2013 and used to power apps from the company and third parties on Facebook. In 2016, Facebook transitioned Parse to opensource and stopped its Parse hosting service a year later. Presently, Parse is supported by a vibrant opensource community through forums, blogs, and extensive documentation. Moreover, innovative features are continuously added to the already impressive platform.

Modern apps need to use server-side features to perform a wide array of functions that range from cloud storage to authentication, user management, and much more. However, the procedure for creating a bespoke server backend is complicated, time-consuming, and requires a combination of unique skillsets.  For instance, the service of a network administrator, security expert, backend developer, and frontend developer, among others, are needed to create an app that uses a custom backend. As such, it is almost impossible for a single developer to handle an app development project successfully. 

Parse managed services emerged to help achieve the objectives of creating server-side functions with relative ease. Besides the core development features, managed backend service also takes care of the scaling and other functions required to successfully run apps. 

Parse Core Features

  • Database (SQL or NoSQL)
  • Cloud Code Functions
  • API (GraphQL and REST)
  • Authentication
  • Notifications (Email and Push-Notifications)
  • File Storage

The Benefits of Parse

Parse presents developers with all the functions required to host and manage data transactions effectively and securely. Parse supports a wide array of data that ranges from text to strings, images, video, audio content, and lots more. The platform has a visual dashboard that enables the developer to perform various backend functions without hassles. Below is an overview of the benefits of Parse.

Focus on the frontend

It gives the developer more time to focus on UI and UX: Since BaaS developers no longer have to bother about backend coding, they have more time to focus on the app frontend. Therefore, they can make apps with better user interfaces and functions that provide an outstanding user experience.

Real-time experiences

Realtime updates and push notifications: Parse provides features that enable developers to create apps that send push notifications and also updates in realtime.

Social Media Integrations

Integrates seamlessly with social media platforms: With Parse, the developer can connect an app with social network platforms such as Twitter and Facebook for authentication purposes. This feature can also be used to recover lost passwords, thereby offing an excellent user experience.

Multiple cloud hosting options

Backend service can be hosted anywhere: App owners can run several Parse instances from any location to serve an international audience.

Local development

Develop locally and deploy globally: Parse’s testing circle time is relatively short because developers can create and test an app locally before deploying to the cloud. 

What is BaaS – Backend as a Service?

Backend as a Service, which is commonly referred to as BaaS is a cloud service that provides support and management for apps backend. In essence, the developer only needs to create and manage the app frontend. Moreover, backend companies also offer additional value to developers through pre-written codes for performing various server-side functions. Some of the codes handle authentication, database management, push notifications, cloud storage, and others.

With a BaaS, developers often leverage software development kits (SDKs) and APIs to create all the app functions. They do not have to bother about creating or managing backends apps, servers, or containers. App creators simply use the APIs provided by the BaaS vendors to connect backend features to their apps. This method of app development is referred to as the “API-first approach.”  That is why web and mobile app development on BaaS is faster than conventional methods of app development. 

The Benefits of Backend as a Service

While web and mobile applications’ user interface differs extensively, the backend that powers the functions is more or less the same.  For instance, the code that supports features such as instant messaging, social media integration, or push notifications is the same. Previously, the developer needs to connect each of these services differently through separate APIs.

With BaaS, the hassle of multiple APIs is no longer necessary. All that is required is to connect the app’s front-end function to the backend through APIs provided by the BaaS vendor.  This approach allows developers to create platform-specific apps using a reusable codebase. Below are a few benefits of using Backend as a Service. 

Readymade Building Blocks:  BaaS platforms give the platform users access to versatile building blocks for app development. Therefore, all developers on the platform have access to the same building blocks. All they need to do is customize it to achieve their unique app objectives.  

Enhances Accessibility: With BaaS, developers can interconnect apps on different platforms that have the same base. This feature gives room for enhanced accessibility, cross-app file sharing, and may other useful functions. Consequently, the app users enjoy a better user experience.  

Avoids Unnecessary Stack Development:  Previously, developers would have to create stacks for each mobile app they want to create. This approach is no longer necessary while using Backend as a Service. Rather than investing hours in creating a custom stack, all that is required is to connect an app with the backend service. So, instead of creating stacks from scratch, developers can create their mobile or web application by building on an existing code structure. 

Conclusion

Parse is one of the most versatile Backed as a Service platform today. Given its short learning curve, it presents an excellent option for developers that would love to leverage BaaS for mobile app development.

General FAQ

What is Parse?

Parse is one of the leading opensource Backend as a Service (BaaS) framework in the world today.

What are Parse core features?

– Database (SQL or NoSQL)
– Cloud Code Functions
– API (GraphQL and REST)
– Authentication
– Notifications (Email and Push-Notifications)
– File Storage

What are the benefits of using Parse?

– Accelerate app development
– Reduce time to market
– Focus on the frontend


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