Node.js is a well-known, open-source technology widely adopted for creating efficient and scalable server-side applications. Recently, it has become a favored framework among e-commerce developers as it can build high-performance, dependable, and scalable ecommerce platforms.
A study by W3Tech shows that the usage of Node.js among websites worldwide ranges from 1.4% to 2.2%. Translating this to the entire Internet, it is estimated that Node.js powers at least 30 million websites.
This blog will examine Node.js e-commerce, exploring its benefits, architecture, and best practices. From discussing why Node.js is an excellent choice for building e-commerce platforms to explaining its architecture, we will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
So, let’s start exploring the exciting world of Node.js e-commerce and discover its many benefits!
What is Node.js eCommerce?
eCommerce refers to buying and selling products and services through the Internet. This can involve physical goods sold through online stores and digital products and services.
The Node.js runtime environment uses the Chrome V8 JavaScript engine. It allows developers to create web applications using asynchronous and event-driven programming, making it an efficient option for development.
Node.js is frequently utilized for building eCommerce applications and enhancing eCommerce platforms. It offers many advantages, including cross-platform compatibility, an easy learning curve, and access to over 800 pre-made packages designed for eCommerce functions.
Furthermore, Node.js applications are highly scalable and perform better than other frameworks like PHP, Java, and Go.
Top Reasons Why Node.js is the Best Choice to Develop an eCommerce Website?
Here are some compelling reasons to consider using Node.js for the development of scalable eCommerce applications:-
1. Cross-Platform JavaScript Platform
Node.js is highly valued for its ability to serve as a cross-platform development platform, eliminating the need for developers to have extensive knowledge of multiple programming languages.
It can be used effectively for both client and server-side applications and offers the benefit of code reuse in case of modifications. This is one of the reasons why Node.js is currently dominating the web application development world.
2. Optimum Performance
One of the critical advantages of Node.js in supporting eCommerce platforms is its exceptional performance. It provides better results at a lower cost than other languages like PHP.
Node.js simplifies the shopping experience for customers by making tasks such as product selection, viewing product features, and choosing payment options more accessible. This can lead to an increase in traffic and engagement on the website or application.
3. Budget-Friendly
The Node.js I/O model is highly efficient and can handle real-time operations without hindering I/O processes. This allows for faster updates to the website application.
Additionally, it reduces development costs as you won’t need to hire separate teams for front-end and back-end development. By employing experienced Node.js developers, you can achieve your goals effectively.
4. Scalability
The event-driven design of Node.js brings scalability to web applications by using simple, small modules that work seamlessly with websites and the ability to add new modules for increased scalability easily.
Node.js’ high customization options further support its use in eCommerce platforms, allowing for tailored solutions that meet specific needs.
5. Ample Support from the Community
Designing an eCommerce platform is a complex task that requires implementing various features, functions, and designs. Sometimes, developers may need assistance and support from the wider community to resolve specific issues.
The vast community of Node.js continually strives to bring improvements, providing developers with new opportunities and solutions. In case of problems, developers can turn to resources like GitHub or StackOverflow for viable solutions.
6. Speed and Reliability
As previously mentioned, Node.js leverages the Chrome V8 engine to deliver efficient speed for web-based applications. In addition, its effective I/O model also ensures non-blocking I/O operations, contributing to its high performance.
When it comes to security, especially for the integration of payment gateway features in eCommerce platforms, Node.js is a safe choice. Companies like Walmart and PayPal have experienced significant traffic increases thanks to the speed and efficiency provided by Node.js.
7. Plugins’ Benefits
One of the significant advantages of using Node.js for eCommerce website development is the availability of pre-made plugins. These plugins, which can often be found for free on GitHub, can help speed up the development process without incurring additional costs.
8. Uniformity in Data Streaming
The design of Node.js allows for HTTP requests and responses to flow through a single data stream, making it easier to process files and streamlining the process for eCommerce websites with large numbers of items. This also allows for the faster upload of videos, helping customers make quick purchasing decisions.
Building an eCommerce Website with Node.js
Node.js eCommerce Application Using MEAN and MERN
The MEAN and MERN stacks are open-source and free-to-use JavaScript frameworks ideal for building eCommerce web applications that can handle sudden spikes in traffic. These stacks operate efficiently because of the following components:
- MongoDB-MongoDB, a NoSQL database managing data storage and supporting Node.JS in running the server smoothly.
- ExpressJS-ExpressJS is a back-end web framework providing a smooth and straightforward interface for app development.
- AngularJS (in MEAN stack)- A front-end framework enabling web development with automatic view-model synchronization.
- ReactJS (in the MERN stack) is a library rather than a framework.
- NodeJS is an efficient and lightweight JavaScript runtime powered by V8 JS.
The process starts with Angular or React handling requests on the client side, then passes them to Node on the server side, followed by Express, which accesses the database through Mongo, collecting the data and passing it back to Express, Node, and Angular, and so on.
Microservices Architecture for Node.js eCommerce Applications
Node.js is compatible with several microservice frameworks, such as Seneca. Using microservices to build an e-commerce app has several benefits, including simplifying maintenance by breaking tasks into more minor services, scaling and updating each service separately, and personalizing pricing for specific customers.
In addition, using an API gateway enables clients to communicate with the microservices, making the overall architecture easier to manage, reducing maintenance costs, and minimizing the risk of frequent crashes.
Best Practices to Master Node.js for eCommerce Development
1. Beware of Prototypal Inheritance
While Prototypal inheritance offers speed and flexibility, it can be more challenging and prone to errors than functional inheritance.
This is because it involves calling the inherit function and ancestor constructor upfront and wrapping object methods in an operation to pass them as callback parameters, making it less useful for binding methods to instances.
2. Standardize your Code Formats
In large websites with many components and contributors, it’s essential to implement a universal format to prevent issues when merging code.
In addition, breaking big problems into smaller modules and using a standard form makes it easier for different developers to understand and work on the same project and makes maintenance easier.
3. Address Errors
To ensure smooth operation, an e-commerce application must be free of errors. Exception handling and asynchronous programming can minimize errors in the app. Node.js offers several ways to handle exceptions and errors to prevent crashes.
4. Develop UIs with a Universal Style
Developing the user interface (UI) in a large e-commerce project can be challenging. Implementing a standard style for the application’s UI and UX makes creating clean, consistent, and manageable code easier. An organizational style guide should be used to help developers adhere to a universal coding style.
How Scrum Digital can Benefits you for Developing eCommerce Websites in Node.JS?
- A seamless customer experience as they move from device to channel and channel to channel.
- Enhanced product presentation through optimized, high-quality images and videos.
- Efficient production and delivery of content with intelligent technology.
- An intelligent shoot-to-web process that speeds up time-to-market with automation and AI.
- Quick and visually appealing experiences are achieved through intelligent optimization.
- Streamlined operations through automated digital asset management.
- Automated media processing at a large scale with advanced APIs, modern SDKs, and intelligent AI features.
Bottom-Line
Node.js is a top choice for developing e-commerce websites due to its open-source runtime environment that works seamlessly on both the client and server sides and allows for code reuse. With the highly competitive nature of the e-commerce industry, it’s essential to have a robust, secure, and reliable platform to succeed. This is where Node.js comes in.
However, if Creating a Node.Js e-commerce website seems challenging, Scrum Digital can help. Our expert developers will collaborate with you to design a tailored solution that addresses your specific requirements and keeps you competitive. Get in touch with us today to explore our Node.js development offerings.
