Sitecore JSS (now known as Sitecore Headless) is a powerful framework that allows developers to create custom web-based UI components and plugins using JavaScript applications. By leveraging the latest version of React and other popular libraries such as D3, Bootstrap, jQuery, Axios, and Lodash, developers can create reusable modules in Sitecore CMS with ease.
However, Sitecore JSS isn't just about simplifying code reuse. It offers many benefits for both developers and marketers. For developers, Sitecore JSS allows them to use any client-side technology or library they want, giving them the flexibility to work with the tools they prefer. This means that developers can work faster and more efficiently, creating high-quality code that is easy to maintain and update.
For marketers, Sitecore JSS offers a wealth of benefits as well. It allows them to create beautiful, modern websites that are optimized for search engines and user experience. The framework also makes it easy to create personalized content for different audiences, helping marketers deliver the right message to the right people at the right time.
Why Is Sitecore JSS Important?
Sitecore JSS is a JavaScript and CSS extension for Sitecore that makes it easy to create custom modules for Sitecore. It was released by Sitecore in 2018. Code written in JavaScript or TypeScript can be compiled into small bundles of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript that load as you move around a page.
Sitecore is at an exciting time because it opens up many opportunities for developers, such as adding features without waiting for Sitecore releases.
Previously, developers could only implement Sitecore using. NET. However since JavaScript has become so popular, the company realized how helpful it could be for users to build Sitecore-based experiences using JavaScript.
Overall, JSS is a set of npm packages with:
- Core packages for talking to different Sitecore APIs, abstracting away the "Sitecore stuff".
- Packages that render data managed by core packages and framework-specific components
Unleashing the Power of Sitecore JSS: Simple Starter Apps for Every Supported Framework
What makes Sitecore JSS so important for developers is that it allows them to develop completely disconnected from Sitecore, without needing to install it on their computers. Deployments can be made to any platform that runs server-side JavaScript in a headless configuration, while preserving all of Sitecore's Experience Platform capabilities, including inline editing, content language versioning, personalization, testing, analytics, and more.
For companies using Sitecore without JSS, integrating frontend frameworks with Sitecore would be a huge project on its own and could result in sacrificing some of Sitecore's core features. However, JSS simplifies things for content authors and editors, allowing them to control the component composition and build digital experiences on their own.
In addition, Sitecore JSS unlocks all the benefits of modern JavaScript frameworks and libraries, including Next's image optimization and static site generation capabilities. With simple starter apps available for every supported framework, developers can get started with Sitecore JSS quickly and easily.
Sitecore JSS benefits
Fully headless
In addition to its headless deployment capabilities, Sitecore JSS empowers developers and gives them full control over their front-end applications and deployed code without having to restart the server. This allows marketers to build new digital experiences and features without interruption, allowing them to have more control over how and where their content appears.
Additionally, JSS integration enables inline editing of content for users already leveraging Sitecore Experience Editor.
Performance Improvements
In order to deliver the best performance for websites and apps, JSS apps leverage the headless CMS architecture and let companies host their frontends in serverless computing devices. By pre-rendering pages in the CDN, JSS sites are also faster since there is no need for client-server communication, which optimizes the user experience.
Independence and flexibility
Sitecore JSS applications or websites can be built using frameworks and tools that developers prefer, including Angular, React, Vue, and even React Native.
Instead of coding on a Sitecore instance, developers can use starters and other tools on their local machines to get started. If eleven developers are ready to commit those changes, they can consume the local data using Sitecore Layout Services and connect to the Sitecore instance, which is a much more straightforward process.
The personalization process
With Sitecore's REST and GraphQL APIs, you can deliver dynamic content, allowing you to customize your digital experiences across a wide range of devices and browsers, as well as create dynamic fields that can be customized with Sitecore's advanced AI personalization features.
Unlocking Greater Business Value with Sitecore JSS: Is it Right for Your Project?
When it comes to building a successful website, speed is key. The faster your website loads, the better the user experience, and the more likely visitors are to engage and convert. This is where Sitecore JSS comes in. By using a headless approach, Sitecore JSS allows users to create and control content over multichannel, multi-device customer journeys. This not only improves the user experience but also gives users the tools they need to achieve better conversion rates and maximum engagement.
Sitecore JSS is a powerful tool that can help users of every level to do their job better and excel at what they do. But how do you know when JSS is the right fit for your project? It's important to take a closer look at the specific needs of your project and determine if Sitecore JSS can help you achieve your goals.
For example, if your project requires a high level of interactivity or personalization, Sitecore JSS may be the right fit. It allows developers to build custom web-based UI components and plugins using JavaScript applications, giving users a fully customizable experience. On the other hand, if your project is more focused on content creation and management, you may not need the full capabilities of Sitecore JSS.
A web application can be built either as a Multi-Page Application (MPA) or as a Single Application (SPA).
- Almost all application logic is performed on the server by MPA.
- A SPA is most commonly implemented using web APIs in a web browser, which performs the majority of user interface logic.
SPA-like sub-applications can also be embedded within a bigger MPA, a hybrid approach is the easiest.
You will implement a JavaScript application powered by Sitecore using one of the modern JavaScript (JS) frameworks supported by JSS (React, Vue, Next.js, Angular, or React Native).
Sitecore JSS for SPAs offers the following benefits:
- Runtime parity between development and production, including SSR during development
- Deployment requirements and "modes" are less confusing
- Sitecore tracking does not require a headless SSR proxy for production or integration
- Common use cases for TypeScript-enabled apps
- For Windows-based developers, a containerized template is available.
- Next.js internationalized routing and Sitecore language versions support internationalization.
When Should You Use An MPA?
- The application needs to be more conventional and solid
- The application is maintained by a team or partner
- Looking for a ready-made application that requires less customization
When to Use A SPA
- You're building a browser-based application
- The development team is familiar with JavaScript, TypeScript, and Blazor WebAssembly
- There must already be an API exposed by your application
- Providing a rich user experience and user interface is important to you
![[2024]Sitecore Implementation: Get It Right the First Time](https://www.qedge.co/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/126-320x180.jpg)
