Navigating the Backend: A Roadmap for Mobile Application Developers
Many experienced developers reach a stage where they think: “How can I become an asset to the organization?” In simpler terms, this translates to “How can I increase my pay, and what should I learn?”
Here are practical conclusions drawn by mobile app developers:
1. Mobile Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Become a mobile Subject Matter Expert (SME) by learning Android Development, React Native, Kotlin Multiplatform, Flutter etc. When I say SME what I mean is a person who has minimum of 3 apps with all the technology mentioned.
This isn’t about creating a basic “Hello World” project; it’s about real-world application and dealing with the framework and business complexities.
2. Navigate the Backend
Explore backend and learn how to build APIs and query the database. This skill set adds depth to your expertise.
3. Become a Manager (Field Shift)
If a higher paycheck is your goal, consider the managerial path. Keep in mind that this shift involves less coding and more day-long meetings.
Regardless of the path you choose, it depends on your aspirations and interests. There’s no predefined roadmap, but blog posts like this can provide insights into potential directions.
Now, let’s explore option number 2, which involves the roadmap to becoming a backend developer.
The backend realm offers numerous options, causing confusion about which language to pick and which framework to start with. My advice is to experiment with various languages and frameworks; choose the one that seems most easy and interesting for you.
Remember, time is of the essence whether you’re gearing up for an interview in three months or aiming to add a new stack before your next manager meeting.
Avoid investing time in learning a language or framework that seems overly confusing.
Start with what you find easy; after all, the underlying concepts will remain consistent across different technologies. It’s crucial to begin somewhere, so why not with what feels most comfortable for you?
Understanding the Backend Basics
Before we begin on this adventure, let’s clarify what backend development is all about. The backend is like the engine room of a ship; it powers everything without being visible to the users.
In the app world, it’s the server, database, and application logic that work together to ensure seamless functionality.
Challenges You Might Face
1. New Vocabulary
Backend development comes with its own set of jargon — REST APIs, databases, servers, and more. It might feel overwhelming initially, but don’t let the terminology scare you off. Learn it gradually, and soon you’ll be talking the talk.
2. Server-Side Logic
Writing code that runs on the server requires a different mindset compared to frontend development. You need to understand how to manage data, handle requests, and ensure your app runs smoothly.
Understanding authentication, authorization, and sessions may initially pose challenges; however, as you dive deeper into the realm of backend development, these concepts will progressively become clearer.
3. Database Dilemmas
Databases are the backbone of all the applications. Learning to design, implement, and interact with databases is a crucial aspect of backend development.
The challenge here lies in grasping the various database models and choosing the right one for your project. Understand when should one go with relational vs a non-relational database.
Overcoming the Challenges
1. Start with the Basics
Begin with the fundamentals. Understand how the internet works, grasp the basics of HTTP and REST, and get comfortable with the client-server architecture. Solidify your foundation before diving into complex concepts.
Learn what is an API: https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/api/what-is-a-rest-api
2. Hands-On Practice
Theory is essential, but hands-on experience is invaluable. Build simple backend projects to apply what you’ve learned like a coffee shop APIs OR a shopping cart module.
This way you will implement what you have learned so far and will get a better understanding of how things work
Use platforms like Node.js, Flask, or Django to create your server and explore how it communicates with the frontend. There are tutorials on YouTube that can help you out on this to get started.
3. Explore Databases
Delve into the world of databases by working with popular ones like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB. Understand data modeling, relationships, and how to optimize queries. Building and maintaining databases will become second nature with practice.
Understanding database is the most crucial part of backend, because you have to know how queries will work and what will make them more performant while dealing with a large set of data
4. Web security
As you delve deeper into backend development, understanding web security becomes paramount.
Protecting user data, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring the confidentiality of information are non-negotiable aspects of a robust backend system.
Learn about secure coding practices, encryption techniques, and the importance of authentication and authorization.
5. Cloud Mastery
Learning cloud platforms like Azure and AWS, can be a game-changer for mobile app developers venturing into backend development.
These cloud platforms offer scalable and flexible solutions, allowing you to host your backend services, databases, and APIs with ease.
By learning how to leverage Azure or AWS, you gain access to a vast array of tools and services that streamline backend development, from serverless computing to database management and beyond.
Cloud platforms provide cost-effective solutions, eliminating the need for extensive infrastructure management.
Take the time to explore the cloud, understand its services, and integrate them into your backend development workflow. The ability to deploy, scale, and maintain your app in the cloud not only enhances its performance but also equips you with valuable skills
6. Stay Curious and Seek Help
Backend development is a vast field, and continuous learning is essential. Stay curious, explore new technologies, and don’t hesitate to seek help from the vibrant developer community. Online forums, tutorials, and mentorship can be invaluable resources.
Conclusion
Starting on the journey of backend development might seem like a daunting task, but remember: every seasoned developer started as a beginner.
Take it one step at a time, celebrate small victories, and embrace the challenges as opportunities to grow.
You’re not just learning a new skill; you’re opening doors to new possibilities in the world of app development.
Happy coding!
