Implementing JavaScript Library

Implementing a JavaScript library has it ups and downs. By using a JavaScript library, developers will not have to deal with manual coding of different functions.

On the other hand, the lack of familiarity with the library and rushing to use the functions offered will only get the application complicated in terms of maintenance and future upgrades.

Here are some tips on how to properly implement JavaScript library:

• Using Closures

For some reason, closures are often ignored by developers. Closures are not really important in a function since the function could still work without them.

When you reconsider closures in relation to variables as well as macros, the importance of closures is highlighted. When the developer uses closures, the local variables could be interpreted with ease.

Macros should be able to implement small functions without affecting the entire coding for the website and/or application. With the help of closures, developers could pinpoint the source of the problem and address them independently.

• Encapsulating Functions

Complementing the use of closures is the encapsulation of functions. In gist, all functions should work independently of other functions, connected only through variables wherein they take turns in interacting with the information.

By encapsulating your functions, you should be able to improve security in your Ajax based application.

Developers would have free hand in implementing the function such as hiding them so that it will not be detected when attacked while maintaining functionality.

As much as possible, functions should be compressed. Dojo and Yahoo have compressors that will work well in different libraries.

• Keep the Native Objects to Yourself

Your objects in your application will work without any problem as long as they are implemented in your application.

Avoid connecting your objects to outside variables and sources. Although it could work, it presents a lot of problems such as cross-browser compatibility, security and conflict of JavaScript versions.

Latest versions of JavaScript may not be compatible with older functions especially in JavaScript 1.6.

• Check and Recheck your API

The good thing about API is that it could be implemented anytime in your application. But you cannot just insert an API in the application without thinking. You need to check the security of your API and check them again in terms of compatibility with your library.

It is very basic and a very smart move if you wanted to have a highly interactive Ajax based application with a fully functional API.  Any type of error that you will encounter while integrating an API will definitely cost you.

In the end, you will never have a good looking application. But if, unfortunately, this would happen, debugging the API could be an option but removing them is even better although this option will take a lot of time.

Your JavaScript library could be highly complicated but it can be handled if you know how to properly prepare your application for the library.

By carefully considering the functions, you will have a highly functional application without any problems in implementation and security.