Good old (and new) friends. A lot of blue outfits. Some cupcake challenges. And one fantastic rooftop. That's how we would describe the 4th of August when Lexis Solutions marked its 5th birthday. 

Lexis Solutions started with four enthusiastic developers - its founders - Bilyal, Deyan, Emil, and Milush, who met at a university competition and embarked on a new adventure - Lexis Solutions. Five years later, 14 people are involved in the life of Lexis' family. It recently expanded with our manager of growth - Mira, and intern - Oleksandr.

All of the mentioned and the rest of the Lexis team - Antoniya, Dilyan, Radoslav, Stefan, Nikola, Martin, and Victor gathered together with some good old friends from the Bulgarian IT world at the Barter Community Hub to celebrate the company's 5th birthday.  Unfortunately, Ivan missed the party, but was definitely missed.

![Lexis Solutions-Team 2](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/7yJGZ6nMf843pFngmgp2rs/74eaa56020fa71b7e820e7d6c5c28ad3/Lexis_Solutions-185.JPG)

Our CEO Deyan gave a speech and presented the company and its development. 

![Deyan giving a speech](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/5i6fAFCyBqWQW5XGsGjZFi/d43d2460d3db8354a78e1476df941aa3/Lexis_Solutions-209.JPG)

To honor our celebration, the guests followed a special dress code - to wear the Lexis Solutions' color - blue. 

![Milush and a blue guest](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/6qgjCncHtKgIfBYoKLjBIY/8821a4c9a3b117da9e8d5732009625bf/Lexis_Solutions-275.JPG)
![Guests1](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/4ksbawPJUFZFTLINiCskVz/147a43bb0ee0594d17504aa2f15de4aa/Lexis_Solutions-289-min.JPG)

There was a lot of delicious food, an open bar, excellent music from DJ Michael Veili, and some specially made Lexis Solutions cupcakes.

![Food](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/1lYyN4V6m6R7MeTYzHBQon/9739b1e7b9731de1f4c5c53afcb95f78/Lexis_Solutions-47.JPG)
![TOP DJ](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/1JcWCbpUrqzhLOHykWVIvB/fef8b3c029e9a475105293054524b883/Lexis_Solutions-94.JPG)
![Cupcakes](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/1k0Qqa42TtGNFamnPTPYjR/59c7d802e73c74daf945b1e529df688c/Lexis_Solutions-242-min.JPG)
![Cupcakes3](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/6lgMgKoFmBYpnsqzjxZkXo/18696aeb43be2d94c29a275c51eede3f/Lexis_Solutions-255.JPG)

The team's effort is crucial… especially when blowing up balloons.

![Ballons](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/4uioa4X7b0YXtVx2fMvFsq/af8af086ebd3b7951cd7892522efc992/Lexis_Solutions-1.JPG)
![Ballons2](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/1UFsKJG9cLiUsswsJBAvLP/d135f650f9a48e91575193d7e20f5d0f/Lexis_Solutions-5.JPG)

[Stoyan](https://www.facebook.com/St.Nedev), our skilled photographer, was always around the corner and captured all the important moments. He also made sure everyone had an Instagram-worth picture.

![Instagram1](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/73xRXcZzQxSQ9Quw0Uld26/c14c1c31ad4286aa2e2c6fed74eb0e9a/Lexis_Solutions-97.JPG)
![Instagram2](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/3M965LvBNE9drDHH1e4qbf/4c521094e164fb4dde2903fa5cd28c61/Lexis_Solutions-139.JPG)
![Instagram3](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/5M7XVE1cnv9JjsL6AfhbpZ/0305b2250ca25ad7b2657a2cdeebc86e/Lexis_Solutions-107.JPG)
![Instagram4](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/5qFlR9TzN7cuK3VXhyTFOo/973ca5244cddf48eb8885e67b3fca746/Lexis_Solutions-121.JPG)

Of course, Lexis Solutions' rooftop party wouldn't have been the same without its guests. We thank them for their smiles, good appetite, and sense of humor. 

![Guest](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/3V9kBh1t06TnbvxaexEQAA/ada2a87a56f813d58db99fa4fbe65919/Lexis_Solutions-55.JPG)
![Guest2](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/22HAcdBPupXQyc0OhFLeR1/ea2e7240a1a1e90a1e2a839bed3ff469/Lexis_Solutions-82.JPG)
![Guest3](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/6IxOHnU5SLWiq0ZOi5VHRr/03c624b9eba29873d86bab63d2549d31/Lexis_Solutions-124__1_.JPG)
![Guest5](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/4igi8z1eTlLZfmNdIacLDu/d0dfc345a2342ada53d77926177a43c0/Lexis_Solutions-122.JPG)
![Guest6](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/MKCoa8pb91qc3VCeYhOuM/9bd5bffa2e8558c5c5730461a89a4882/Lexis_Solutions-164.JPG)


Lexis Solutions is celebrating its 5th anniversary.

Lexis Solutions-Team

5 Years Lexis Solutions: A Rooftop Party

Bilyal Mestanov

Antoniya Ivanova

solid final

cover photo-caching

Milush-photo

knowledge-2-cover-photo

Stefan Mitov

Dilyan Georgiev

Ivan Todorov

software development for startups

PM-cover photo

ChatGPT - cover photo 2

Deyan Denchev

Viktor

 Livewire-cover photo

Lemon.io

Mira

CTO & Co-Founder

Milush Karadimov

Software Developer

Full Stack Developer

CEO & Co-Founder

Viktor Enchev 

Mira Ereeva

Growth Manager

PHP Developer

 C# .Net Developer, Knowledge Management PHD

Laravel Livewire is a full-stack framework for building dynamic web applications without writing JavaScript. Livewire is built on top of Laravel, a popular PHP framework. It allows developers to create reactive user interfaces. It is also developer-friendly, which saves time and effort.

# Prerequisites

To use Livewire effectively, it is crucial to have a good understanding of certain prerequisites, including PHP and Laravel basics such as routing, controllers, views, and models. In addition, basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is also helpful. Once these fundamentals are in place, users can begin to explore the more advanced features of Livewire, such as real-time validation, form handling, and state management.

# How does Livewire work?

Livewire can perform server-side actions in response to user events (such as clicks or inputs) without the need for a full page refresh. It is achieved by using Livewire components, a combination of backend PHP and frontend JavaScript code that work together to create dynamic user interfaces. When a user interacts with a Livewire component, Livewire sends an AJAX request to the server, which updates the component's state and re-renders the relevant HTML parts of the UI. It allows for a more seamless and responsive user experience and simplifies the development process by eliminating the need to write separate frontend and backend code for handling user interactions.

Livewire provides several methods for handling user interactions, including event listeners, form submissions, and custom methods. These methods can be defined within the Livewire component class and are triggered by user events within the component's template. With Livewire, developers can easily create interactive and dynamic web applications without sacrificing performance or scalability.

# Benefits

## Rapid Development

Livewire allows developers to build interactive and dynamic interfaces without writing any JavaScript code. It accelerates the development process and saves a lot of time. And it will enable junior programmers to tackle more complex tasks without necessarily having a deep knowledge needed to resolve problems the traditional way.

## Event-Based Model

Livewire is built on an event-based model. It allows developers to respond to events in real-time and trigger actions without reloading the page. An example of how Livewire uses the event-based model is in form validation. 

Let's say you have a form that requires validation before submission. Livewire provides real-time validation, meaning it occurs as the user types, providing instantaneous feedback on errors.

If the validation fails, the user will get an error message without the page reloading. This process is fast and efficient, as it only updates the specific part of the page that requires validation.

## Easy to Learn

Livewire's syntax is simple and intuitive. Developers familiar with Laravel's Blade syntax can quickly learn and start using Livewire in less time. Even copying and pasting the old code into a Livewire component doesn't break anything, but it wraps the code in Livewire, which is extremely handy for beginners.

## Increased Security

With Livewire, developers don't need to expose their endpoints as API endpoints. Livewire also uses a checksum to prevent users from tampering with the data sent from the client to the server. It generates a checksum for every request and validates it to ensure the data is not compromised. Livewire implements a second security measure known as "persistent middleware." 

This feature allows Livewire to record any authentication/authorization middleware utilized during the "Initial Request." Subsequently, Livewire applies the recorded middleware to all future requests.

# Use cases

Livewire is a robust framework that enables developers to build rich, interactive web applications quickly and efficiently. Some of the most common use cases for Livewire include:

## Real-time updates

Livewire is often used to build real-time applications that require updates to be made quickly and without page reloads. Livewire communicates with the server via AJAX, which makes the updates faster and more efficient.

__Example:__ Suppose we have a real-time chat application that requires instant messaging updates. Using Livewire, you can automate updating chat messages without frequent page refreshes.

## Dynamic forms

Livewire can be used to build dynamic forms with fields that change based on user input. It also provides live validation and error message functionality.

__Example:__ An online shopping website's checkout form can have a checkbox, "Shipping address same as billing address," which, when selected, dynamically populates the billing address fields. 

## Interactive dashboards

Livewire is ideal for creating interactive dashboards. They are web pages that display real-time data in charts, graphs, and tables. Interactive dashboards allow users to quickly see changes and make decisions based on the latest information. Livewire helps build interactive dashboards without the need for additional JavaScript coding. Developers can use Livewire's Polling directive to be added to an element, and it will refresh every 2 seconds or according to the set time.

__Example:__ A dashboard that displays live user sign-up count and purchase data stats for an eCommerce site.

## Chat applications

Livewire makes building chat applications more manageable by providing real-time data binding and the ability to interact with data without page refreshes. Developers can create chat rooms and direct messaging.

__Example:__ A chat application similar to Slack where users can create teams, chat rooms, and direct messages and receive live notifications for each event.

## eCommerce 

Livewire allows developers to create eCommerce websites quickly and efficiently. With Livewire, developers can build product catalog pages, provide real-time search functionalities, notifications, and shopping cart functionality, and offer seamless checkout processes.

__Example:__ In an e-store, Livewire can send real-time notifications about how many people view the product or how much stock is left.

## Multi-step forms

Livewire can be used to create multi-step forms that guide users through a complex process, with each step being determined by the user's input from the previous one. Multi-step forms are forms with multiple pages that collect user data in chunks. Livewire provides a simple way to build these forms by dividing them into standalone functions inside a single component. It makes the sharing and passing of data between the steps extremely easy. Livewire provides an easy way to build these forms by breaking them up into standalone functions within a single component. 

__Example:__ A real estate loan application form that collects personal, employment, and financial information in three pages.

## Social Network

Building social networking platforms can be challenging, but Livewire simplifies the process with real-time data and component-based development. Developers can easily create features like user profiles, news feeds, friendships, and messaging systems.

__Example:__ A social media platform similar to Facebook where users can see posts, updates, and photos on their wall and interact with each other through comments and likes in real time.

## Online Auctions

Online auction platforms enable buyers and sellers to exchange goods and services using an auction-based system. With Livewire, developers can create responsive auction platforms with real-time updates and notifications for bids.

# Pros of Livewire

- __No need for JavaScript:__ Even if you don't know JavaScript, you can still create dynamic interfaces with Livewire. You can manage everything within Laravel.
- __SEO-Friendly:__ Dynamic content generated using Livewire is indexed by search engines because everything is rendered on the server side.
- __Code Reusability:__ Developers can seamlessly reuse code across different views, making the development process faster and more efficient.
- __Simplifies AJAX:__ Livewire simplifies AJAX calls to the server side. It makes it easier to manage and maintain client-server interactions.
- __Debugging:__ Livewire comes with integrated debugging features such as displaying the component's properties and event stack traces.
- __Testing:__ Livewire is test-friendly as it provides valuable testing utilities and tools that make writing test cases for your components easy.
- __Resources:__ There are plenty of resources available on the internet for Livewire, including official documentation, tutorials, blog posts, and forums.
- __Alpine.js:__ Livewire integrates well with Alpine.js. Livewire uses Alpine.js under the hood to handle its reactive components. With Livewire, you can build interactive user interfaces with minimal JavaScript and CSS, and Alpine.js enables you to enhance your components further.

# Cons of Livewire

- __Syntax:__ Livewire's syntax is not intuitive for developers unfamiliar with Laravel's Blade syntax.
- __JavaScript collisions:__ Livewire doesn't work out-of-the-box with some JavaScript libraries.
- __Knowledge bottleneck:__ Advanced functions need more in-depth knowledge of JavaScript.
- __Performance risks:__ If not set up correctly, Livewire can initiate multiple AJAX requests in cases where one is sufficient.

# Conclusion

Developers prefer Livewire as it provides fast development times, more manageable code maintenance, improved performance, and better user experience. And in Livewire's case, you don't have to sacrifice your SEO rating as the HTML is server-rendered.

Livewire is powerful as it helps developers build complex and dynamic interfaces faster while producing better user experiences. Additionally, it's open-source, making it easy to find help online and integrate with other Laravel libraries and platforms.

Livewire is a developer-friendly framework built on top of Laravel that empowers you to create interactive web apps, handle real-time validation, and manage states without writing a single line of JavaScript.

Say Goodbye to JavaScript with Livewire: A Full-Stack Framework for Laravel

# What is SolidJS?

![solid1](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/2SH97gdde7SE9vfiQwr2tP/1d9e8a3cfae16486aa9a6c9929d1a3bd/1.png)

SolidJS is a declarative JavaScript library used for building UIs and web applications. However, instead of a Virtual DOM, SolidJS uses a technique called "fine-grained reactivity" to achieve efficient updates.

This means that components only re-render when their dependencies have changed, rather than re-rendering the entire tree as with a virtual DOM approach.

By avoiding the overhead of a virtual DOM, SolidJS can achieve excellent performance while still providing a simple and flexible API for building complex user interfaces.

Similar to React, Solid uses JSX to render HTML in the browser. It also uses familiar syntax for reactivity to update DOM in real-time.

# Architecture & Components

Like most Javascript frameworks, SolidJS uses component architecture for modularity and reusability.

Here is a simple Solid component:

![solid2](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/54ZX2nEIQ0j3nGNR6EZmvr/48247c42fb932eed9be883035af6b64b/2.png)

You can also check out the [SolidJS playground](https://playground.solidjs.com/).

![solid3](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/4S3MzRleBOtAv0PSGzZFWR/5e1c30c5e591948601f266dfaea038c3/Screenshot_2023-05-04_at_10.17.58.png)

If you are familiar with __React__, you will notice that __Solid__ components utilize JSX for implementation. The code snippet indicates that SolidJS components consist primarily of a single extensive JavaScript function that generates a blend of HTML and JavaScript code via JSX.

# What are Signals?

Signals are similar to the hooks in __React__. Signals are the foundation of __Solid__, the values they hold are updated automatically whenever any change is made to them, and this happens each time the value is changed.

![solid4](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/ChMxFhrq8j9PD62mtMzVT/917afa9e194fed4bc672968b99d3444c/Screenshot_2023-05-04_at_10.20.11.png)

In the above example, we use the __'create Signal'__; it has two values, a getter and a setter. Both values are functions, the getter __'count'__ returns the current value and not the value itself. So to access the value, you have to use it as function __'count()'__

*List of Signals and their counterparts in __React__:*

- __'createSignal'__; Similar to __'useState,'__ used to manage reactive state in a component.
- __'createEffect'__; Similar to __'useEffect,'__ used to manage side effects and asynchronous operations.
- __'createMemo'__; Similar to __'useMemo,'__ used to memoize the result of a computation.

# Lifecycle Methods

*__Solid__ provides two primary lifecycle methods.* 

The __onMount__ lifecycle runs a piece of code when the component renders initially. It is equivalent to a createEffect which does not have any dependencies.

![solid5](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/2jKTHH8w8W8GtgxuaTblE5/a05b46e30747ff46a2be1e8ee3fb5780/5.png)

The __onCleanup__ function registers a callback function that will be executed when a component is unmounted or destroyed. This can be useful for cleaning up resources such as event listeners or timers created in the component.

![solid6](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/1FSQo5eV8OucwL6zS1EM30/b03410247025148e781108dc05efeba3/Screenshot_2023-05-04_at_10.25.36.png)

# Control Flow Components

Solid's API has a bunch of built-q helpers to out various actions, such as looping through a list or conditional rendering.

For example, we have a __<For>__ component that renders a list:

  ![solid7](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/1wivuvIDHNMpY8YZBecnn7/e6867dec90093be1d908db2045e5ba6f/7.png)

*Some other helpful control flows are:*

- __<Show>__; used to conditional render part of the view
- __<Switch>__; used when there are more than 2 mutually exclusive conditions
- __<Portal>__; used to insert elements in the mount node. Helpful in inserting  Components outside of the page layout.

You can check the official [documentation](https://www.solidjs.com/docs/latest#control-flow) for more information and an explanation of all control flow.

# What are the downsides?

The main downside is the more miniature ecosystem and fewer documentation/blogs around the web. Hence, you have to be ready to do more yourself, аlso because of that, potentially, you will not see many jobs offers for it, and companies are reluctant to adopt it.

# Conclusion

Solid looks like an up-and-coming framework. The API is complete, and the usage of JSX simplifies component composition. It has a bright future, the community is still growing, and the discord server is quite active. You can find a lot of help there.

Try SolidJS, the declarative JavaScript library that uses "fine-grained reactivity" to provide efficient updates and a flexible API for building complex user interfaces.

The Solid Choice: Exploring SolidJS for Your Next Web Development Project

# What is caching, and why is it important?

So what is caching exactly? 

It's a process where we store copies of frequently used data in storage with faster access times. Whenever the application needs this data, it will first check whether it's available in the cache. If the data is unavailable, it will try to retrieve it from the source. This way, we can save a lot of time on expensive calculations, network traffic, or load times. Caching is a very versatile approach used everywhere, from the lower levels, such as CPU caching and operating systems, to web apps.

In the rest of this article, we'll explore how you can leverage this to improve performance and user experience, but also what to look out for when setting up caching for your application and the potential risks. 

## HTTP caching

The first type of caching we'll look at is HTTP caching, including browser and proxy caches and CDNs (if you still need to become more familiar with what HTTP is, you should check out [our previous article on HTTP requests)](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/beginner-frienly-http-requests). 

## Browser caching

All modern web browsers support this, allowing them to store some of the resources sent by the server (e.g., images, stylesheets, scripts, and so on) locally instead of fetching them from the server every time the user visits the website. 

__As this has multiple advantages:__

- Faster loading time. Larger resources (images, for example) might take some time to download, increasing the page's loading time. By caching them, we can avoid this issue.
- Since we are not getting the resources directly from the server every time the user visits the page, this also reduces the server load.
- Reduced network traffic. This is especially useful for users who are on a limited data plan.

__To control what resources should be cached and when they should be updated, we have access to a few headers:__

__Cache-Control__

The Cache-Control header holds instructions (called directives) that control how caching should be done. Some of those directives include max-age, which controls for how long the cache is valid, or no-store, which completely disables the caching for the specific request. You can check out this MDN web docs page for a complete list of these directives.

__ETag__

You can think of the ETag as an identifier of a specific version of a resource, so when the resource changes, so will the ETag. By comparing the ETags, we can check whether there are any updates without requesting the entire resource; if there aren't, we can reuse the data we already have. This allows us to be much more efficient.

__Last-Modified__

This header stores the time when the resource was last updated. It serves a similar purpose as the ETag.

## Proxy caching

Another type of HTTP caching is proxy caching. Here, instead of storing the data on the user's device, it's stored on a proxy server between the client and the application server. When the server sends a response to a specific request, the proxy will intercept it and store it locally in its cache. 

Next time a client requests the same resource, the proxy will be able to return the cached response without having to forward the request to the application server. Like with the browser cache, here we can use the same HTTP headers to control how the caching works.

Unlike the browser cache, the one in the proxy is used for all the clients' requests, so this type of caching is sometimes called public. On the other hand, the browser cache is available only for one specific client, so it's a private cache. 

## CDNs

CDNs (Content Delivery Networks) will cache content on geographically distributed servers to be closer to most users, which improves the web application's performance and makes it more reliable, as the content is stored on multiple servers.

## Server-side caching

Server-side caching is used to improve the server's performance and reduce the load on the server by storing frequently used data. This can be API responses, results from database queries, or results from any other time-consuming operations. 

__There are many different ways to implement server-side caching. Some of them are:__

- __In-memory caching.__ We can access data quickly by storing it in the server's memory. This is most suitable for smaller data sets that must be accessed frequently. We can implement in-memory caching either with libraries such as node-cache for Node.js for smaller projects or by using in-memory databases like Redis, which can provide a centralized cache if you ever need to scale to multiple servers. 
- __Storing the data in the server's file system__; is usually used for bigger data that don't need to be accessed that often.
- __Database caching__, where the results of frequently used queries are stored either in memory or on the disc.

# What to look out for when implementing caching?

There are a few potential problems you could run into when implementing caching, including: 

- If the cache gets too big, it can negatively affect the application's performance.
- Storing incorrect or outdated data in the cache.
- Security problems. As we saw in previous examples, sometimes cached data can be accessed by multiple clients. It's important not to include any user-specific or otherwise sensitive data in the cache.

To avoid these issues, we must carefully plan what data should be cached and how long it should be stored before the data is replaced or invalidated.

And in case you are working on more extensive multithreaded applications, here's a bonus one: cache stampede. 

As we said earlier, in server-side caching, if the requested data is not present in the cache or has expired, the request will get it from the database instead. So, we have thousands of requests trying to access the missing data simultaneously. In that case, they will all be forwarded to the database, overloading it and bringing down the entire system in the worst-case scenario.

### There are multiple ways to prevent this:

- __External computation:__ keeping an external process that will re-compute the cache values on specific intervals or when a cache miss happens
- __Probabilistic early expiration:__ the resource is re-calculated just before it's about to expire
- __Locking__: While one of the threads is re-calculating the value, the others are locked out. Here, it's up to you to decide whether they will have to wait or get stale data.

# Summary

Caching is a powerful tool that can help us improve our web applications' performance and user experience. Still, it's important to always carefully plan how we will implement it to achieve the best results and avoid any unwanted consequences.


Optimize your app's speed by storing often-used data in fast-access storage. Let Lexis Solutions show you various techniques to maximize your application's performance.

Faster Apps, Happier Users: An Introduction to Caching

# Will I lose my job to A.I.?

As artificial intelligence (A.I.) technology continues to advance, many programmers, including myself, are beginning to have sleepless nights wondering if AI, particularly language models like ChatGPT, will eventually replace human programmers altogether.

In today's topic, we will answer this complex question and discuss if we should at all worry or if we should instead embrace our A.I. dominators and improve ourselves with their help. 

P.S. Remember to check the [introductory article about ChatGPT](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/chatgpt-the-new-content-creator-or-ultimate-cheating-tool) on our blog!

# Why are programmers intimidated by ChatGPT?

If you are a programmer or someone that works in the tech world, you know that ChatGPT is *everywhere*. It is the most talked about subject on the Internet right now and will continue to be as more and more people learn about it.

Most people with no tech background are fascinated by it and try to learn more about it and experiment with it. But some of us who are aware of the existence of A.I. and have seen simple models that work on predicting if an image has a dog or a cat on it are surprised by the rapid advancement of A.I. technology and feel intimidated by it. When you dig deeper and try it for yourself, you begin to understand how capable ChatGPT is.

Regarding programming skills, ChatGPT is capable of understanding and generating code. It is capable of generating code based on natural language input, which means that it can create complex programs and scripts, including those that require machine learning, data analysis, and other advanced techniques. It has access to a large number of code examples.

### Don't believe me?

Tell a programmer to create a simple snake game, and let's see how fast he can do it. Even the most advanced programmer can take up to 10-15 minutes to create it without external resources. ChatGPT would have generated it simultaneously in 10 different programming languages.

That was only a simple example, but from even that, we can see the potential in it. With enough time and large amounts of data to be "Fed" into it,  tomorrow, it might not create only simple snake games for our amusement but rather create whole websites, servers, and businesses in a fraction of the time it would take an entire tech firm to do.

Аll sounds discouraging for all of us, right? There isn't only bad news on the horizon. A.I. could dominate us in the future, and it might take our jobs as well, but today is not that day, and instead, let's now discuss why humans are still needed and cannot be replaced so easily.

# Everyone has their part to play

While ChatGPT can generate code and understand natural language input, it needs more creativity, ingenuity, and experience than human programmers possess. It cannot invent new solutions or think outside the box like human programmers. Additionally, it is limited by the quality and scope of the data it has been trained on, which may need to reflect real-world scenarios or considerations.

Furthermore, programming is not just about writing code but also about problem-solving, innovation, and strategy. Human programmers are still essential in the development process, as they possess the critical thinking skills necessary to identify and address complex issues and potential challenges that may arise.

Another important consideration is that ChatGPT needs help understanding the larger context in which code is being developed. It cannot anticipate how to code will be used or how it will interact with other systems, which can lead to unintended consequences or security vulnerabilities.

Currently, a client that wants to create a product must write more than just a few vague descriptions for the A.I. bot and expect it to make what it envisions. They still need that human factor to understand them, write and design every part he wants, and then create and publish it for everyone to use.

That's why instead of fearing the rise of A.I. language models like ChatGPT, programmers should view them as valuable tools that can help streamline the development process and free up time for higher-level tasks. By embracing and integrating them into their work, programmers can stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and improve their productivity and efficiency. And to do that, let's discover some that can help us improve.
A.I. as a tool for improvement

As the field of artificial intelligence continues to advance, programmers can use a growing number of A.I. tools to increase their productivity and streamline their workflows. 

## Here are some of the most useful ones for programmers:

### __Code Completion and Auto-Suggestion__

AI-powered code completion tools like TabNine or Kite can help programmers write code faster by suggesting code snippets and completing code as they type. They use machine learning algorithms to analyze code and offer suggestions relevant to the context.

### __Testing and Debugging__

AI-powered testing and debugging software, such as DeepCode or Snyk, can help programmers identify and fix bugs in their code more quickly and efficiently. They use machine learning to analyze code and detect potential issues, including security vulnerabilities.

### __Natural Language Processing (NLP)__

NLP, such as GPT-4 or spaCy, can help programmers process and analyze large amounts of natural language data. They can be used to build chatbots, analyze text data, and perform other natural language processing tasks.

### __Version Control__

AI-powered version control tools like Gitcolony or DeepGit can help programmers manage code changes and resolve conflicts more effectively. They analyze code changes and suggest the best action to resolve disputes.

### __Intelligent Code Review__

AI-powered code reviews software, such as CodeGuru or DeepSource, can help programmers improve the quality of their code by identifying potential issues and suggesting best practices. They analyze code and provide feedback specific to the programming language and coding style.

There are many more such as GitHub Copilot, Bard - Google's answer to ChatGPT and its rival for years to come, and even Grammarly, with which this blog is monitored for all typing mistakes. Overall, these A.I. tools can help programmers save time and improve the quality of their code by automating routine tasks and providing intelligent feedback.

# Conclusion

Programmers should embrace A.I., like ChatGPT, rather than fearing it. By leveraging the power of A.I., programmers can increase their productivity, improve the quality of their code, and ultimately create better products that meet the needs of their users.

A.I. will take over, and there is no doubt about it. But we are still far from that future. Stay calm about the future and focus on living fully in the present.

ChatGPT through a developer's eyes -  potential threat or the programmer's new best friend? 

ChatGPT: The Downfall of Programmers?

In the dynamic world of IT, where people come and go and clients demand more and more features, the need for knowledge transfer between the developers turns out to be critical. Even short-term projects with fewer functionalities need to be supported, and if there is no documented knowledge, that task turns out to be left in the dark.

# So how does knowledge transfer work?

When discussing knowledge, we have two main goals – gathering it on one side and dispersing it horizontally and vertically throughout the organisation. If your company is a conditionally hierarchical structure, knowledge is being transferred between the employees in different teams on one side and between the layers of management on the other. As you can see in the figure below, even in a simple organisational structure, communicational channels could be dynamic. 

![Organizational Structure-2.drawio](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/4U8YSiztJ6vz5NDs16GBxx/353e021bd7974e94e7ba254d64f3d660/Organizational_Structure-2.drawio.png)

Sharing information between employees is essential, especially if it concerns procedural or product knowledge. [In my previous article](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/why-does-knowledge-matter), we discussed the importance of knowing how different aspects of data contribute to a company's overall progress. So, suppose you have a stable onboarding process with many examples and documentation. In that case, your feeling of being integrated and accepted is increased, which leads not only to better integrated intellectual capital but also encourages you to establish knowledge sharing as a tradition in your work style. 

## Examples:

### Client 1:

*The onboarding process was two weeks, and all teams were included. That gave me a significant overview of the product, the main domains and subdomains, and the architectural style. We also discussed each service's code structure, external services, and critical initiatives. When I was offboarding, I tried to include those practices when introducing the new employee. This gave me the opportunity to update existing documentation and fill knowledge gaps that had been previously underestimated. Ultimately, both sides were satisfied, and we continued communicating afterward.*

### Client 2:

*I was included in this project in the final stage of development. Most of the functionalities were developed, and some use cases needed to be finalised. The onboarding process was focused on how to work with the platform and what are the prominent cases we will develop. One of the crucial aspects was the Quality Assurance on low level and documentation. Code complexity required some additional clarifications. A unit-testing strategy was critical to be defined in order to have some direction during the QA process. My final feeling was that seeking information and initialising conversations with your colleagues from the beginning of your presence in someone's working environment makes you dedicated enough to have a productive time during the project and loyal enough to bring the project to its logical closure.*

In terms of communication between different layers, we can separate knowledge types into organisational and technocratic – both contributing to the mission and vision of the company (know-why) and the technological profile it defines (know-how). Lacking that kind of knowledge would be a blocker when introducing new employees. The main idea of onboarding is to ensure you understand the values that drive the company towards its goals and find your place in the team, where you will be helpful and creative. This may not be critical during your first year, but the more you grow, the more you will want to understand how the magic is happening. 

# Conclusion

Knowledge transfer is not something strongly procedural. The best environment is where knowledge transfer is established naturally, where people have a tradition to communicate and grow together as a team, so even at the end of your journey, you will keep great memories and friendships. 


How to introduce a new member in your software development process, and what are the main aspects you need to include in your offboarding session?

Why Does Knowledge Transfer Matter?

React and React Native are the most popular technologies for developing web and mobile applications right now. They are widely adopted by developers and companies alike due to their efficiency, speed, and ability to create high-performance user interfaces.

As a software company specializing in React & React Native, we often get asked how to wrap a React website in a native app or share code between web and mobile apps. It's a relevant question that many developers and companies face when trying to expand their reach and offer their [services](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/cto-as-a-service-the-ultimate-guide) on multiple platforms. This article will cover some options for solving this issue and wrapping a React website in a native app.

But why would you want to wrap a React website in a native app and publish it on the app stores? There are several reasons why this might be beneficial for your project.

First, having an app version of your website can improve user experience and engagement. Users can easily access your [content](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/powerful-and-free-tools-for-content-creation) or services through a dedicated app on their mobile devices without navigating through a browser. This can result in higher retention rates and increased user satisfaction.

Secondly, publishing your app on the app stores can give you access to a broader audience and increase your brand visibility. App store optimization (ASO) techniques can help you rank higher in search results, making it easier for potential users to discover your app.

Finally, wrapping your React website in a native app using React Native can also improve performance and speed. Native apps have access to device-specific features like push notifications, cameras, GPS, etc., which can enhance the functionality of your app and provide a better user experience.

Wrapping your React website in a native app and publishing it on the app stores can benefit your project. It's worth considering if you want to expand your reach and engage with more users.

## WebView

This is, by far, **the easiest way** to achieve the task is to wrap your React website into a [WebView](https://reactnative.dev/docs/custom-webview-android). This component allows you to display web content within your native app, giving users the same experience as if using a browser. Even though the name WebView is used by the [Android](https://developer.android.com/reference/android/webkit/WebView) platform only, often iOS's implementation, [WKWebView](https://developer.apple.com/documentation/webkit/wkwebview) is also called the same.

![WebView Docs Screenshot](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/2n9Aj7vjg2mxPXsLleqJap/358e615f07cc279fbde1f7c95158b5b1/pika-1678356387478-1x.png)

While this is the easiest way, **there is a catch**. The Apple App Store and the [Google](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/are-you-older-than-google) Play Store have specific requirements for using WebView on native apps.

According to the [Apple App Store Review Guidelines](https://developer.apple.com/app-store/review/guidelines/), WebViews are acceptable if they adhere to certain guidelines. For example, WebViews must be used to display user-generated content and should not offer a browsing experience within the app. Additionally, if your app is designed to be a hybrid of native and web-based content, it may be acceptable to use WebViews.

On the other hand, the [Google Play Store also has specific guidelines](https://play.google.com/about/developer-content-policy/) for using WebView in native apps. According to their policy, apps that are just a WebView of a website or have only minor changes or enhancements to existing websites are not allowed on the store. However, there are some exceptions when using WebView is acceptable. For example, suppose your app provides additional functionality beyond what is available in a web application, such as offline support or access to device-specific features like camera and GPS. In that case, it may be allowed on the Google Play Store.

Additionally, suppose your app is designed to be an alternative to a web-based platform rather than just displaying the same [content](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/powerful-and-free-tools-for-content-creation) as the website. In that case, it may be eligible for distribution on the [Google](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/are-you-older-than-google) Play Store. In this case, you should ensure that your app meets all other policy requirements and guidelines before submitting it for review.

It's important to note that both app stores reserve the right to reject any app that does not meet their policies and guidelines. Therefore, before wrapping your React website in a native app using WebView or any other method, thoroughly read and understand their rules and regulations to avoid rejection or removal from the stores.

## React Native

React Native is a popular choice when it comes to developing hybrid apps. It's an open-source [framework](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/scrum-a-comprehensive-overview) created by Facebook that combines the benefits of both React and React Native. It enables developers to build high-performance applications compatible with multiple platforms while providing access to device-specific features like push notifications.

![React Native Docs Screenshot](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/2etpdRQPJDJxgtApWLEBoM/d7fd0840b1807e5a83cb8eec0437d4bd/pika-1678356274247-1x.png)

One of the benefits of using React Native to wrap your React website in a native app is that it allows you to create a truly native experience for your users. While WebView displays web content within a native app, React Native makes native components that render on the device's UI. This means that the app looks and feels like a native application.

Compared to traditional native applications developed in Java or Swift, React Native offers several advantages. First, it enables code sharing between web and mobile apps, saving time and resources during development. Second, it provides access to a vast ecosystem of pre-built components and modules that can be easily integrated into your project.

To wrap your React website in a native app using React Native, you'll need to create a new React Native project and add your website files to the project. 

Using React Native to wrap your React website in a native app can save you from rejection or removal from the stores due to policy violations. While wrapping your React website in a WebView is the easiest way to create a native app, it may not meet the strict requirements of app stores. In contrast, using React Native __requires more work__ but can provide you with a truly native experience and better performance. Moreover, apps developed using React Native are easily accepted by app stores because they use native components rather than WebViews.

## Cordova

Cordova is another possible [tool](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/powerful-and-free-tools-for-content-creation) for wrapping react websites in native apps. It's an [open-source](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/contributing-to-open-source-how-we-crafted-agenda-admin) mobile application [development](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/from-idea-to-launch-software-development-for-startups) framework that allows developers to create cross-platform apps using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It also provides access to device-specific features like camera, GPS, etc., which can be used to enhance the functionality of your app and provide a better user experience.

![Cordova Website Screenshot](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/5nminJYhIbnEWUiJttB3fm/e33cc3707dc14ade5871c53517ff4911/pika-1678356553322-1x.png)

While Cordova used to be a popular tool for hybrid apps, it has been losing popularity recently.  One clear signal for this is the latest [StackOverflow Developer Survey 2022](https://survey.stackoverflow.co/2022/#section-most-loved-dreaded-and-wanted-other-frameworks-and-libraries), showing that 75% of developers say they would **not** use it, given other options.

The main reason for this decline is that as more developers move towards using React Native or similar frameworks, Cordova has fewer resources and support. This makes it challenging for devs to troubleshoot issues or find solutions when working with Cordova.

Overall, while Cordova may still be a viable option for some projects, its declining popularity and limitations compared to other alternatives make it less appealing for many developers looking to wrap their websites in native apps.

## React-Native-Web

Our **favorite** way of wrapping a react app in a native app here at Lexis Solutions is the [react-native-web ](https://github.com/necolas/react-native-web)library by [@necolas](https://github.com/necolas). This library brings the power of React Native Components and [APIs](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/how-to-test-REST-ful-APIs-with-postman) to the web. It allows developers to create web applications that are accessible across different devices and input modes while rendering semantic HTML tags. This library allows developers to share code between web and mobile applications, enabling them to create a bridge between the two platforms. You can build iOS, Android, **and** Web apps with the same codebase.&#x20;

![React Native Web Screenshot](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/4nobPHEzEGEJT450k38uMQ/8a1b07c30c27e81a76b2cda9cb7fed0b/pika-1678356178479-1x.png)

It works by aliasing the `react-native` import to `react-native-web` using your web bundler's (Only Webpack supported) capabilities. This way, while your React Native apps import components and APIs from `react-native`, your web-app imports the React equivalent. You can find the supported features in their detailed [documentation](https://necolas.github.io/react-native-web/docs/react-native-compatibility/).

This is an A+ solution for wrapping a react app in a native app, and we have used it on many production apps in Healthcare, E-Commerce, and Finance.

## Summary

In summary, several options are available for wrapping your React website in a native app, including using WebView, React Native, Cordova, and React-Native-Web. Each option has advantages and disadvantages; the choice ultimately depends on your project's requirements and your development team's skills.

If you're unsure which option is best for your project or need help wrapping your React website in a native app, drop us a line. Our team of experienced developers at Lexis Solutions can provide guidance and support to ensure your idea's success. Contact us today!

Answering one of the most common questions we get as a web & mobile agency - how to share code between a React web app and React Native mobile app.

Reviewed: Ways to Wrap a React Website in a Native App

[Lemon.io](http://lemon.io/) has welcomed Lexis Solutions into its esteemed partnership network, acknowledging our commitment to providing exceptional services that meet the highest standards.

# What is Lemon.io?

Lemon is a managed marketplace where they choose the most suitable projects for the best service providers considering their qualifications and availability.

They have a rigorous screening process to ensure the highest quality service for their clients. They evaluate a developer's hard and soft skills and proficiency in English to make the deal successful before welcoming you into their Lemon Community. Clients choose them because of their top-tier network of developers performing their tasks with due diligence and outstanding communication.

Currently, their talent pool consists of 1000+ remote developers.

### What is the success rate?

Out of 9000 applicants, [Lemon has accepted the top 360](https://lemon.io/hire-net-developers/#h-the-result-only-4-of-candidates-pass-our-tests). That’s only 4% of all candidates.

### Joining the network as a freelancer

This article doesn’t cover the topic of joining Lemon.io as a solo contractor. If you’re interested, you can learn more about it [here](https://lemon.io/lemon-io-review/#section-10).

# Joining the network as a service provider

In August 2022, we had the opportunity to meet their team personally and talk about the hottest trends around the IT industry and especially delivering quality IT solutions.

The application process for a service provider like us was more stringent and comprehensive than for individuals. 

In the beginning, we had a detailed conversation with their partnership development managers, where their team learned details about the company like:

- What is the company structure?
- What are the company's competitive advantages?
- What are the team structure and responsibilities?
- Who are our previous clients?
- What is our vision & mission?
- What is our experience & expertise in different industries?
- What is the company screening process for new colleagues?

### Pro tip:

Here are some no goes to keep in mind before applying to the network:

- Developers without skin in the game.
- Developers with less than three years of experience
- Developers who joined your company less than three months ago.
- Developers with less than [Full Professional working proficiency in English](https://www.icls.edu/foreign-language-programs/ilr-proficiency-levels/).
- Developers with mediocre communication skills.

We waited for a couple of days for their verification process, after which they contacted us with a positive reply.

The next step was evaluating the English proficiency of our colleagues, as communication skills are of utmost importance for Lemon's clients. We each had a friendly conversation with a team member responsible for language level checks.

After that, the Lemon team conducted online meetings with three of our current clients, where each shared their experience from collaborating with us. They all leave positive feedback and endorse us without reservation, as they have seen what we can do.

The final step was building an impressive profile for each of our developers ready for a new challenging project. We crafted excellent technical portfolios with Lemon's guidance and insights to stand out.

### Note

Keep in mind that this was the process only for us. There is no guarantee that it will be the same for your company. 

# How it works

Once you join Lemon's network, your company is invited to join private channels where its expert team will promptly notify you of the most promising opportunities for your company and its clients. With detailed information provided upfront, you can quickly determine whether the project aligns with your strengths and interests. Should both parties express interest, Lemon will facilitate an introductory meeting, ranging from friendly get-togethers to in-depth technical discussions. 

These conversations aren't just about finding the right technical fit and evaluating whether the client and technical person are a match. Lemon's team moves swiftly to provide you with feedback, and when there is a mutual interest, the process is streamlined without unnecessary bureaucracy. Before you know it, you'll dive into the client's project.

# From applicants to partners 

We are proud to say that we have had several successful partnerships with Lemon.io within just a few months. Their trustworthy community, combined with our diligent work, has led to new partnerships that benefit everyone.

Joining Lemon.io has been an excellent decision for our company. We look forward to continuing to work with them to deliver quality IT solutions and grow our success stories.


Lemon.io welcomes Lexis Solutions to its growing network of top-tier remote developers.

When Life Gives You Lemons, Partner with Lemon.io: Lexis Solutions did!

Tech startups are on a quest for the ultimate app, a digital creation that propels their business toward success. They navigate through uncharted waters, using data as a map to chart their course and make corrections along the way. With a fresh, innovative approach to product development, startups have caught the eye of both software vendors and clients.

Embark on a journey with Lexis Solutions as we delve into the exclusive realm of software development for startups. Uncover the key phases and models of product building that every tech entrepreneur should be familiar with and put into practice for optimal outcomes.

# Software development for startups

Software development for startups is distinct from established corporations due to its limited market influence and financial resources. 

## Critical differences in software development for startups

### Agile response to the transformation 

Flexibility is crucial for success as a young business entering a competitive market. Startups should have a business strategy adaptable to market changes instead of sticking to a rigid plan.

### Ability to pivot quickly

The ability to rotate easily also allows startups to shift, making significant changes to their business direction without incurring substantial losses or failing.

### Attention to clients' insight

Unlike larger businesses with extensive field experience, startups must pay extra attention to customer feedback in product development. With a smaller consumer pool, startups can gather more specific, actionable insights directly from users.

### Analytics-based strategy

Like other aspects of the business, software development for startups must be data-driven. Although companies of all sizes rely on data, startups need to build data sets for each product they develop to avoid the buildup of data silos, a common issue in more giant corporations.

# The phases of software development in startups 

Following a structured process is essential to ensure a smooth journey from idea to deployment and beyond when developing a new product. The steps can be adjusted based on your needs or deadlines. 

## It all starts with an idea

Unleashing creativity in a team environment requires tapping into the collective imagination. Capturing each unique thought and storing it for posterity is vital. Subsequently, the most promising concepts come to light by evaluating and narrowing down the choices and delving into market trends, granting a deeper understanding of the landscape and the players. Conducting a SWOT analysis allows your startup to chart a course for success.

## Bringing an idea to life requires thorough validation

This includes outlining your competitors and monetization strategies and showcasing a minimum viable product (MVP) to highlight the software's fundamental functionality. Engage with your [CTO](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/cto-as-a-service-the-ultimate-guide), partners, investors, and stakeholders to ensure your concept is sound and backed by a solid business plan.

## Crafting the vision

Your design team paints a vivid picture of the software to help developers bring it to life. With the help of your [UX/UI](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/free-resources-for-resourceful-UI-designers) specialists, wireframes and prototypes of the user interface come to life. Engineers then evaluate the feasibility of the features before building the product, seamlessly integrating ideas with the business plan.

## Building the foundation

The heart of software development for startups lies in this stage. It requires focus and skill, whether enhancing the MVP or starting from scratch. Agreeing on the tech stack sets the foundation for your development team to begin constructing the product.

## Testing the waters

Separating testing from the development process can speed up the [quality assurance](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/into-the-shoes-of-a-QA-the-FAQ) (QA) process. Instead, integrate testing into the software development life cycle to identify and fix bugs before moving forward.

## Bringing it to life

Once testing is complete, implement the changes. Review the code and make any necessary modifications before adding new features.

## Launching into the world

It’s time to launch. Your DevOps team should have a plan to deploy the product. This is crucial as it's the first time your solution meets the target audience. Showcase your startup in its best light, gather user feedback, and make adjustments.

## Monetizing the dream

Before launching, determine the monetization strategy that aligns with your marketing plan and maximizes profits while prioritizing a positive user experience. Choose from various options, such as subscriptions, in-app sales, ads, purchases, and sponsored partnerships.

## Continuous improvement

The software development journey never truly ends. Keep a close eye on the product, gather user feedback, and continually make improvements. Maintain a strong relationship with your users and stay open to their suggestions for future updates.

# Models of software development for startups

The world of software development for startups is constantly evolving, with new methodologies emerging to help teams build better and faster. But which one is right for you and your startup?

__Agile is the king of flexibility;__ with short-term deliverables and iterations, startups can quickly iterate their products without restrictions. However, Agile can lead to poor resource allocation and may disregard documentation.

On the other hand, __Waterfall__ follows a strict chronological hierarchy and prioritizes documentation. While this method is simple to follow, even with shifting team members, it may limit the agility of the software development process for a startup.

__Lean__ values efficiency and swift product delivery. This methodology optimizes resources and empowers team members to be more productive but relies on seamless cooperation between teams.

Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to carefully consider your project's needs and goals before deciding.

# How to find software developers for a startup

Recruiting the right developers for your startup can be a game-changer, but simply telling them, "I'm building a billionaire business, want to be part of it?" won't do the trick. Here are some steps to help you bring on the right talent to build your dream:

## Clarity 

Define the essence of your project and what it entails to convey its worth to potential developers. Passion and a clear understanding of your idea can be your best selling points if you need a millionaire investment.

## Talent over budget

Don't settle for just anyone who fits your budget. Dedicate time to sourcing and recruiting the right candidate with the skills and excitement to work on your project.

## Know what you need 

Be transparent in your job description and ensure it reflects the flexibility required for a role in a startup. Knowing the different types of developers and their areas of expertise is especially important if you need a technical background. Hiring someone who needs to be the right fit can only delay projects and harm morale.

## Embrace remote work

Attract top talent from all over the world by considering remote work. Hiring remote developers can save time and money and accommodate a more efficient workflow.

## On a quest to hire developers for startups 

For those looking to bring a developer on board, freelancing platforms are a popular option for single projects. Toptal, Guru, [Upwork](https://www.upwork.com/ag/lexissolutions/), Freelancer, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, and Lemon.io are well-known freelancing websites. 

Another strategy is to partner with local universities, sponsor student projects to find up-and-coming talent, and then offer internships to help students gain experience and connect with your company.

Job boards like LinkedIn can be a fast solution for finding developers online. However, knowing the right fit for your company can take time and effort with so many candidates. Local recruitment agencies can save time in the long run, but they limit your search to one area and may need more technical knowledge.

Another crucial question is how much it costs to hire developers for a startup. And the answer is not that simple: it depends. We already gave you some options for how and where to find the right developers for your startup. A tech partner is always a good choice, especially a [Chief Technology Officer](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/cto-as-a-service-the-ultimate-guide). If neither of them works, you can always ask a fellow startup founder, who you are sure is on the way to success, for any significant advice. 

# The blueprint for a better process of software development in startups

## Communication is the key

Ensure a harmonious workflow by creating crystal clear channels of communication. Utilize tech-savvy tools like Slack to facilitate seamless collaboration between team members. Schedule frequent virtual huddles to stay in the loop and easily track progress.

## Stay focused on your goals

Use [project management tools](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/scrum-a-comprehensive-overview) and [extensions](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/7-google-chrome-extensions-for-higher-productivity) to track progress and ensure you stay on track with your launch timeline. Regularly evaluate the project to ensure it aligns with your initial goals.

## Choose your [resources](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/free-resources-for-resourceful-UI-designers) 

Wisely before selecting a technology stack, and provide you have experienced developers on board. Consider hiring new developers or outsourcing part of the work, but always have in-house [experts](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/cto-as-a-service-the-ultimate-guide) to handle integration.

## Document everything

Centralize all product development documentation in a system. This will prevent delays and keep the project moving forward even if team members leave mid-way.

## Data-driven decisions 

Make decisions based on data, not intuition, to minimize the risk of failure. Use data management systems like [MongoDB](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/What-is-MongoDB) to analyze information and make informed decisions. Automate data processing to get real-time information with high accuracy.

## Test, Test, Test

[Testing](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/how-to-test-REST-ful-APIs-with-postman) is crucial to catch errors and logic flaws in the code. It's a time-consuming process, but the stakes of a flawed code make it worth it. Make testing a part of your software creation process, or give it its life cycle.

## Seek feedback

As we already mentioned, considering your clients' insight is crucial.

Conduct surveys, questionnaires, and usability tests, and observe customer interactions to gather information and improve your chances of success.

# Conclusion

Bringing software development for startups to life may seem daunting, but by sticking to the essentials, you're building the cornerstone for future triumph. Pick a startup-savvy method that keeps you light on your feet and can pivot with the market's demands.

Though many companies and startups are hopping on the agile bandwagon, select a software development model that suits your startup's unique style. Thorough testing is a must-have, so give your products a complete workout before unleashing them. 

Communication is vital, so keep the channels open and harness the power of tools to be more productive, gather valuable user feedback, and make smart business moves.


Join Lexis Solutions on a journey to the heart of software development for startups and uncover the secrets to success.

From Idea to Launch: Software Development for Startups

There must also be someone in the management role whenever there is a team. Sometimes, a person grows into such a role based on his experience in the technological world. Other times, it may be because of managerial expertise alone. 

Whatever the case, this role brings a new layer of responsibility. In this article, I will go through a few critical aspects of management and add some notes from my personal experience.

# An overview of the Project Manager's responsibilities

A project manager (PM), in the context of software development, is responsible for leading a team of software engineers and overseeing the development of software products. A typical day for a PM may involve the following:

- __Team management:__ Checking in with team members to provide guidance, address any concerns, and track project progress.
- __Project planning and monitoring:__ Review project schedules and milestones, ensuring that project goals are on track and making any necessary adjustments.
- __Risk management:__ Identifying and assessing potential risks to projects and implementing strategies to mitigate those risks.
- __Resource allocation:__ Assigning tasks to team members and ensuring that resources are used effectively.
- __Quality control:__ Overseeing the quality of code produced by the team and ensuring that it meets industry standards and client requirements.
- __Stakeholder management:__ Communicating with stakeholders, including clients, upper management, and other departments, to provide updates on project progress and address any concerns or issues.
- __Technical leadership:__ Providing technical leadership and guidance to the team, helping to ensure that projects are completed on time and to a high standard.
- __Hiring and training:__ Recruiting new team members and providing training and development opportunities to existing team members.
- __Continuous improvement:__ Staying current with industry trends and best practices and continuously improving processes and tools to improve the efficiency and quality of software development.

A software engineering manager's day-to-day operations need to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard.

# Project Manager vs. Product Owner

When working with clients, the product owner role often comes directly from their side. In that regard, it is essential to distinguish what responsibility each side should hold.  

__In general, one can encapsulate both terms as follows:__

The project manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of the project, including developing project plans, managing resources, overseeing the development team's work, and ensuring that the project stays on schedule and within budget. The project manager is also responsible for managing risk and ensuring that the project meets its objectives.

The product owner, on the other hand, is responsible for the project's overall success. Their work consists of defining the goals, determining the scope, and providing the input needed to complete the project. The product owner is also responsible for making critical decisions regarding the project, such as what tasks to prioritize in a concrete timeframe to align with marketing, what to cancel, or what can be omitted in the interest of resource-saving.

# Two Lessons from personal experience

"*Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth*," as Mike Tyson says, is a great way to think about project management as a whole. There may be guides or frameworks to systematize the general approach, or one can draw ideas from the experience of others, but in the end, every manager finds their unique style through the role itself.

On the one hand, this style may work with certain kinds of team members but not with others, so finding the right fit for the team is one of the most critical skills a manager should have. 

On the other hand, each client that the PM may end up working with has unique aspects. Maybe they are very cautious, have stricter goals that need to be aligned with engineering challenges, need extra help to organize their requirements, or want to build the "perfect" product down to the last pixel. In all situations, an experienced manager must communicate effectively and set the proper boundaries. 

__Next, I will list the two lessons I find most helpful in my work.__

## 1. Set the proper expectations for the client

Working in software development, especially with a technical background, it is easy to make wrong assumptions about how the client assesses our work. This comes from the fact that a lot of the work happens without the client'sclient's awareness, even though it ensures a higher standard of the software solution. 

In the end, what is seen is what is judged. Managers must take the client'sclient's point of view and fully communicate the processes and time needed for implementation. This way, everyone is on the same page. 

I have prepared a list of points that may differ depending on each project's needs and specifications but reinforces the argument:

### Requirements gathering and analysis

Clients may need more time to fully understand the scope of the project and the amount of time necessary to gather and analyze requirements. It could take multiple meetings and back-and-forth iterations and involve many parties from both sides.

### User experience and design

Creating a user-friendly and accessible interface takes effort, but clients may not fully appreciate the importance of this aspect of the project. From my experience, there has never been an occurrence where some design components needed to be updated during the development phase, so front-end elements had to be reworked on the go. With that in mind, I often encourage the clients to do as many variations and discussions as they would like beforehand and for the team to use this time to set up as much back-end work as possible. Then the front-end implementation can start with a good level of maturity for the interface.

### Integrating with existing systems

Integrating a new software solution with existing systems can be a complex and time-consuming process, mainly if the systems are outdated, lack documentation, or have limited functionality. 

Software developers need to consider not only the integration itself but put it in the context of their specifications.

### Testing and documentation

[Testing](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/how-to-test-REST-ful-APIs-with-postman) and [quality assurance ](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/into-the-shoes-of-a-QA-the-FAQ)are crucial steps in software development but can often be underestimated. It is vital to communicate the need for proper testing as clients will point out the bugs as a lack of professionalism in the delivery phase. 

Technical documentation is also essential to a successful software product, but clients often undervalue its importance.

In the past, I have personally been involved in a project where feature development was the team's most significant focus. The result was stable due to our extra efforts in manual testing, but the lack of automation and documentation caught on. At a future moment, the product owner decided to sell the code but could only obtain a limited price because of that. A software implementation with a test infrastructure to back it up has a different value.

Not to mention that during the work process, a lot more resources were spent on manual testing and onboarding members in person, which bumped the cost additionally.

### Debugging and fixing issues

Debugging and fixing issues that arise during the development process can take longer than anticipated, particularly if the problems are interrelated in a more extensive system. 

That said, being proactive and asking for the client's input to point out as many use cases as possible is vital. It will help by surfacing many bugs preemptively. 

### Performance optimization

Performance optimization is an integral part of software development that is usually not on every client's mind but, indeed, is expected by default. It is worth it to spend extra time identifying potential performance bottlenecks and discussing scalability and computing complexity with all parties involved.

### Security considerations

Ensuring a software solution is secure and protected against potential threats requires additional efforts. Security is an aspect that is poorly patched ad-hoc and should instead be dealt with at the beginning of the project. Still, clients may only fully understand the importance of this aspect of the project after the first issues come.

### Deployment and post-deployment support

Deploying a software solution and providing post-deployment support takes time and resources. Setting up the proper infrastructure is critical. However, clients may need to fully understand the ongoing effort required to maintain the solution after deployment. 

## 2. Unclear tasks lead to inefficiency

We frequently put it off when trying to figure out how to complete a task.

One of the most critical stages of [project management is planning](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/scrum-a-comprehensive-overview). It is the crucial step before the execution can begin. Checklists contain what must be done, when, and how, but a lack of clarity in these requirements will most likely result in serious issues or miscommunications.

With my background of being a [software developer,](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/tips-for-mentoring-developers) I've always questioned why I require additional drive for specific tasks. The issue is relatively simple: there are no precise requirements. Unconsciously, we steer clear of tasks we need to learn how to finish. We continually reschedule it, but we may miss important deadlines, which leads to unnecessary extra stress.

Furthermore, there are two ways a task may be unclear to a software developer - either it needs to be better described from the business logic side, or the programmer needs help figuring out where to start with the implementation. In both cases, the PM should be focused on providing as much clarity as possible by being proactive and connecting all the dots inside and outside the team.

So a manager must find a way to handle requirements and client requests by explicitly communicating the last detail before setting his team on the tasks at hand. And for every individual project, this step may be executed differently.

# Conclusion

Being in the shoes of a project manager is undoubtedly one of the field's most dynamic and challenging roles. It lends itself to a lot of creativity and, when done right, also provides one of the most rewarding experiences. When a team just " clicks," and the consistency of the workload is appropriately managed, everything falls into place, and clients get exactly what they need.


An overview of the project management role and personal experience notes.

From the front lines