SharePoint Framework (SPFx) is a page and web part model which can be used to build apps and functionalities to personalize the SharePoint experience. At Evolvous, we offer a comprehensive range of solutions based on SPFx. Let us try to learn about the framework in detail and see how it can impact your SharePoint experience

What is SharePoint Framework (SPFx)?

SharePoint Framework (SPFx) is a page and web part model that can be used to build customizations on the SharePoint platform. The framework provides full support for client-side SharePoint development, and easy SharePoint data integration and can integrate seamlessly with modern SharePoint UX.

SPFx SharePoint is the recommended customization and extensibility model for SharePoint developers. Not only SharePoint, but you can also use it to customize and extend the functionality of Microsoft Teams and Viva Connections. In fact, it is the only customization and extensibility model available for Viva Connections.

Is SharePoint Framework based on JavaScript?

Yes, SharePoint Framework is based on JavaScript. It primarily uses modern web technologies like React, Node.js and similar technologies to build client-side web parts.

When it comes to SharePoint SPFx development, you are not limited to Windows and Visual Studio. It can be built on OS X and Linux as well, using any code editor you like. It also gives you the freedom to use any JavaScript framework that you are comfortable with.

Does SharePoint Framework Replace Existing Customization Models?

No, SPFx SharePoint does not completely replace existing models, but rather complements them. Customization models in SharePoint have a long history. It started way back in 2007, with WSPs in MOSS. Then you had the sandboxed solution in SharePoint 2010, followed by SharePoint add-ins in 2013. The goal for newer models has always been the same – to help separate customizations from SharePoint to ensure platform stability.

Compared to older models, SharePoint Framework offers modern client-side development and provides a flexible and scalable way to customize the environment.

Farm solutions can still be used in SharePoint server-based deployments. However, they can’t be used for SharePoint Online. In such cases, SPFx remains the only viable option.

SharePoint Framework also complements the Add-in model. While add-ins remain useful for isolated customizations, SPFx gives you better integration capabilities and can be used for custom web parts and extensions

Some Insights About SharePoint Framework

Let us delve a bit deeper into SharePoint Framework (SPFx) and gather some useful insights abouts it features and applications

What are the Key Features of SharePoint Framework?

SPFx offers many features, making it an ideal platform for developers to build new features and customize the SharePoint environment. Here are the key ones:

•   SPFx runs in the context of the current user and connection in the browser. You will have no iFrames for the customization, as JavaScript is directly embedded to the page.
•   You can add SPFx web parts to both classic and modern pages.
•   As said before, you can use any JavaScript framework you want. The list includes popular options like React, Handlebars, Knockout, Angular, and Vue.js.
•   The developer toolchain for SPFx SharePoint is based on various, open-source client development tools like NPM, TypeScript, Yeoman, webpack, and gulp.
•   The controls are responsive and accessible by default and are rendered in the normal page document object model (DOM).
•   It enables the developer to access the lifecycle. You can also use SharePoint Framework for rendering, loading, serializing and deserializing, configuration changes, and beyond.
•   End users can use SPFx client-side solutions. They just need to be approved by the tenant administrators (or their delegates). Once approved, the solutions can be used on all sites, including self-service teams, groups, or personal sites.
•   Apart from Microsoft Teams, Viva Connections, SharePoint Framework can also be used to extend Outlook and Microsoft 365 apps.

When Should I Use SharePoint Framework?

SharePoint Framework can be used anytime you want to extend your SharePoint environment’s capabilities.

Here are some of the scenarios where you can use SharePoint framework:

•   Designing Custom Web Parts or Extensions : If you need to create custom web parts like headers, footnotes, or a new list view, then you can use SPFx to do that.
•   Microsoft 365 Integrations : When looking to integrate Microsoft Graph or other Microsoft 365 APIs, using SPFx is a better option as it allows for seamless integration.
•   Enhancing Security : SharePoint Framework offers easy deployment and hosting within SharePoint, leveraging the security model of the platform. This enhances the overall security of the solution.

SharePoint SPFx solutions work both in the modern and the classic versions. Contact our experts in Microsoft SharePoint consulting and discover more use cases for SharePoint Framework.

Some Tips for Using SPFx in SharePoint Development

Let us now look at some of the tips and best practices that you might want to follow when you are using SPFx for SharePoint Development. Here are a few:

1. Always Choose the Right JavaScript Framework : Always try to use popular frameworks as it will allow for better maintenance and scalability. We recommend React. This is because Microsoft uses it in its own SPFx webparts and extensions. This gives you a better collection of sample codes and better support as well.

2. Try to Use PnP Libraries : The Practice and Pattern (PnP) libraries simplify working with SharePoint REST APIs. This helps you avoid complex REST API Calls, simplifying interaction with the SharePoint data.

3. Follow the Recommended Lifecycle : It is also recommended that you follow the recommended SharePoint development lifecycle. You should test the solution locally or on a SharePoint site. This helps in the early detection of issues and makes deployment to the live environment easier.

4. Use TypeScript : Code quality is crucial when it comes to custom SharePoint development with SPFx. Using TypeScript enhances code quality, by avoiding common JavaScript errors.

5. Get Professional SharePoint Consulting Services : It is recommended that you work with a SharePoint consultant. They will have the expertise to help you develop solutions that will deliver the performance that you desire.

Discover the Potential of SPFx with Professional SharePoint Consulting Services

Evolvous is a certified Microsoft Gold Partner. For over the past decade, we have helped businesses like Unilever, Patek Phillipe, Parks Canada and multiple other businesses from diverse industries make their SharePoint experience more immersive and aligned with their individual goals.

Get 50% Off on First POC and 2 Hours of Free Consultation

Looking to explore the benefits of professional SharePoint solutions? At Evolvous, we are offering 2 hours of free consultation sessions with our SPFx sessions, to help you understand the benefits of custom SharePoint development. You also get 50% off on your first Proof of Concept (POC) to get an exact idea of how the solution will work.

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