JavaScript in a Nutshell: What You Should Know About It If You’re Not a Programmer

Did you know that JavaScript is the language that powers over 98% of the world’s websites? It’s one of the pillars of modern web technologies, transforming static websites into interactive platforms. At 2Simple, we know its potential and we’re happy to use it in our applications. Why is that? You’ll find out in this article.

What is JavaScript?

JavaScript is one of the most popular programming languages. It is used to create dynamic, interactive, and responsive elements of websites. It makes what you see on the website change after performing a specific action. It allows forms to respond to data, photo galleries to scroll automatically, and web applications to work in real time. A simple example would be the operation of a calculator on a website.

JavaScript (abbreviated JS) is a scripting language. It is mainly run in the web browser, although thanks to Node.js technology it can also be used on the server side. JS is designed to be immediately interpreted by the browser. This allows for immediate reactions between the user and the website or web application.

JavaScript: A programming language created in a few days?

The JavaScript language was created in 1995. It was created by Brendan Eich, who at the time worked for Netscape Communications - the provider of the most popular web browser at the time.

In the mid-1990s, websites were simple and static. Therefore, Netscape wanted to introduce technology that would allow for dynamic changes in the appearance and functionality of pages without having to reload them. Eich was tasked with creating a language that would be easy for programmers to use and could work directly in browsers.

Express Speed

Brendan Eich designed the first JavaScript prototype in just 10 days!! Initially, the new programming language was called Mocha, but was eventually named JavaScript. This name was mainly for marketing reasons. The idea was to associate it with the then popular Java language. However, despite the name, JavaScript and Java have little in common - their only connection is the inspiration in naming and the general ideas of object orientation.

JavaScript: One of the Most Popular Programming Languages?

Today, JavaScript is one of the most important programming languages. In 2023, it was used by over 60% of programmers in the world. This means that its popularity exceeded, among others, Python or Java.

Its versatility makes it a key tool in creating both the front-end and back-end of web and mobile applications. Its popularity in server environments is mainly due to the Node.js platform.

JavaScript: Key Features

What makes JS so popular among programmers? Here are its key features:

• Dynamic. It allows you to create elements such as animations, pop-ups, form validations, and interactive maps.
• Versatility. It can be used in web, mobile, and desktop applications.
• Integration with HTML and CSS. JavaScript works with other web technologies, allowing you to build complex applications.
• Event-driven. JavaScript responds to events, such as mouse clicks or cursor movements.

Viral popularity

Interestingly, in the case of JS, popularity is additionally fueled by... popularity. Due to the fact that JavaScript is used in over 98% of websites, practically every Front-end Developer (i.e. a programmer responsible for creating this visible layer of the application) must know it. Additionally, the huge popularity of JS means that many libraries and frameworks for programmers have been created that facilitate and speed up work using JavaScript.

JavaScript Applications

As I mentioned, JavaScript is used in many different areas. The most important of them are:

• Modern websites - because thanks to JS they gain dynamics;
• Web applications - which thanks to JS become reactive;
• E-commerce - because JavaScript is responsible for dynamic shopping carts, recommendation systems or payment handling;
• Mobile applications - because those written in JavaScript frameworks (e.g. React Native) work on both Android and iOS;
• ERP and CRM systems - i.e. more advanced programs used to manage business processes in real time, in which dynamics and reactivity are also an important feature.

JavaScript at 2Simple

At 2Simple software house, we specialize in creating JavaScript-based solutions that meet the needs of companies from various industries.

Thanks to the experience of our programmers, we are able to deliver:

• Dedicated web applications that are interactive and user-friendly;
• Business support systems, such as applications that automate processes or support order fulfillment;
• Mobile applications adapted to market requirements and operating on various devices.

Our projects are scalable, secure and compliant with the latest standards. Discover the potential of JavaScript with 2Simple. Invest in the future of your company today!

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