Micro Frontend Architecture

In today’s fast-moving world of web development, it’s important to build applications that can grow and be maintained easily. Micro Frontend Architecture is a way to make this happen by breaking a big application into smaller, manageable parts. In this article, we’ll explain what Micro Frontend Architecture is, why it’s helpful, and how you can use it.

Source: LeanyLabs Blog — Micro Frontends Overview.

What is Micro Frontend Architecture?

Micro Frontend Architecture means splitting a large application’s frontend into smaller parts called “micro-frontends.” Each micro-frontend is like a mini app that does one job well. These pieces can be built, tested, and updated separately without affecting the rest of the application.

Key Features:

• Separate Teams: Teams can work on their own part of the app without waiting for others.
• Mix and Match: Each micro-frontend can use different tools or frameworks.
• Independent Updates: You can update one part without touching the others.
• Seamless Combination: All parts come together to look and feel like one app.

Why Use Micro Frontend Architecture?

Here are some benefits of using micro frontends:

1. Work Faster: Teams can develop different parts of the app at the same time.
2. Easier Fixes: Smaller codebases mean finding and fixing issues is simpler.
3. Upgrade in Pieces: Update or improve one part of the app without redoing everything.
4. Team Freedom: Teams can pick the best tools for their part.
5. Reduced Risk: If one part has a bug, it won’t crash the whole app.

Principles of Micro Frontend Architecture

To use micro frontends successfully, follow these rules:

1. Focus on Business Areas: Divide the app based on what users need.
2. Keep It Independent: Each part should work on its own.
3. Compatible Changes: Make sure updates don’t break connections between parts.
4. Clear Communication: Use well-defined ways for parts to talk to each other.

How to Build Micro Frontends

Follow these steps to get started:

1. Pick a Strategy

There are different ways to combine micro-frontends:

• In the Browser: Load each part with JavaScript when the user opens the app.
• On the Server: Put the parts together before sending them to the user.
• At the Edge: Use content delivery tools to assemble the app close to the user.

2. Use Module Federation

Module Federation in Webpack lets you share code and features between parts easily. It’s a popular choice for combining micro-frontends.

3. Share Common Tools

Create shared libraries for things like design styles or utilities to avoid duplication.

4. Combine the Parts

Use a framework or custom tool to bring the micro-frontends together. Make sure the design is consistent.

5. Deploy Separately

Each micro-frontend should have its own deployment process. Automation tools can help.

Tips for Success

• Start Small: Try micro frontends with a small project first.
• Keep it Fast: Optimize the parts so the app loads quickly.
• Communicate Clearly: Use simple ways for the parts to share data.
• Track Issues: Set up tools to monitor and fix problems across the app.

Challenges of Micro Frontends

Here are some potential issues and how to handle them:

1. Complex Setup: Managing many parts can be tricky. Use automation to simplify.
2. Slower Loading: Too many parts can slow down the app. Optimize for performance.
3. Look and Feel: Keep a consistent design across all parts.

Conclusion

Micro Frontend Architecture is a smart way to build modern web apps. By splitting a big app into smaller pieces, teams can work faster, fix problems more easily, and keep improving without starting from scratch. If you’re ready to take your frontend development to the next level, give micro frontends a try. it’s the future of scalable web apps!

In the next post, we’ll explore how to build a simple application.