Wednesday 27 August 2014

Is HTML5 the Best Choice for Responsive Website Design?

HTML5 development, HTML5 QA and testing, Hire HTML5 developersThe huge popularity of smartphones, tablets and phablets has made the web landscape complex. It has become essential for each business to create responsive websites to keep the visitors engaged by delivering solid web experience. Along with being highly responsive, the website also needs to be compatible with both conventional and mobile devices.

So website designers use a variety of tools to make the website accessible on different types of devices. Many web programmers, nowadays, use HTML5 to make the websites and web applications work on multiple devices. HTML5 has further made it easier for developers to create rich and responsive internet applications without putting any extra time and effort.

Why HTML5 is the Best Choice for Responsive Website Development?

Easy to Integrate a Variety of Content: To keep the visitors engaged, a website must be designed by integrating a wide variety of content. HTML5 enables website designers to integrate different types of content by using syntactical features like <audio>, <video> and <canvas>. Likewise, the semantic value of a document can also be enhance by using tags like <article>, <section>, <nav>, and header. As the graphic and multimedia content can be integrated with the website without using any third party plug-ins, the website can be accessed by users on any device.

Elegant Forms: Most websites interact with visitors through forms. HTML5 makes it easier for website designers to enhance the user interface by using fancier forms. Further, the user input can be validated through HTML. The native form validations make the website accessible on browsers without relying on JavaScript. Also, the programmers have option to capture different types of user inputs for search and form.

Cross Browser Compatibility: The performance of a responsive website is also affected by its compatibility with widely used web browsers. At present, HTML5 is supported by some of the hugely popular web browsers including Firefox, Chrome, Opera, Safari and Internet Explorer 9. The developers also have option to define doctype to make the tags recognizable for old browsers. However, the older versions of certain web browsers still do not recognize new HTML tags. But the web developers can simply add JavaScript shiv to make the website compatible with older browsers. The enhanced compatibility makes websites more responsive and interactive across browsers.

Efficient Option to Place Cookies: Most responsive websites use cookies to track unique user data. But the cookie data are added to the HTTP request headers. It also results in increased response time. HTML5 allows users to reduce cookie size through two storage options, i.e., sessionStorage and localStorage. Despite not being a permanent database, these storage options can be used effectively to store structured data temporarily. Thus, the website will become more responsive due to the efficient use of cookies.

Geolocation API: To become highly responsive, a website must figure out the current location of the user. The location of a user can be determined based on his wireless internet connection, IP address or the cell phone tower his mobile device is talking to. Some web browsers are even designed with dedicated GPS hardware to capture the location of the user through satellites. The web developers can use HTML5 geolocation APIs to make the HTML5-compatible browser-based application capture the current location of the users. So it becomes easier for the website to keep the user engaged by delivering the most relevant content.

Improve User Experience through Native APIs: Each responsive website needs to enable users to interact with the content, while responding to them effectively. HTML5 makes it easier for developers to build more interactive and responsive websites by using several native APIs. For instance, they can use the drawing HTML tag <canvas> to make the website more responsive. Likewise, they can further use native APIs like timed media playback, offline storage database, document editing, browser history management, and drag and drop.

However, it is also important for the web programmers to keep in mind the shortcomings of HTML5. They also need to explore ways to enhance the responsiveness of websites by addressing these features. The developer can still rely on HTML5 to optimize the accessibility and performance of websites without writing complex code. To get maximum benefits of HTML5, you may consider hiring services of a HTML5 development company.

We provide HTML5 QA and testing services. If you would like to hire HTML5 developers from us, we would be glad to assist you at Mindfire Solutions.

Wednesday 20 August 2014

Different Python Editors that Help in Development for Your Tablet

custom Python development company, outsource Python application development, hire Python developersAccording to a recent report posted on MacRumors.com, “Overall, the worldwide tablet market has grown 11 percent year-over-year, with total tablet shipments of 49.3 million, up from 44.4 million in 2013.” So no wonder a constant increase is being noted in the number of companies developing apps by targeting some of the hugely popular iOS and Android tablets. As a high level and dynamic programming language, Python enables developers to express concepts without writing longer lines of code. Further, Python is supported by the convenient programming environments for both iOS and Android tablets. The programmers also have option to use several Python editors to write programs on their lightweight tablets from almost anywhere.

Some Widely Used Python Editors for Tablets

Pythonista: The integrated development environment (IDE) comes with the features required by programmers to write Python script on iOS. In addition to allowing developers to access the iOS clipboard and photo library, Pythonista further enables them to make the prototypes more interactive by using sound, animation and voice touch. At the same time, the developers can also access a text editor with features like code completion, syntax highlighting and an extended keyboard to facilitate Python coding. Also, the integrated UI Editor allows developers to create user interfaces for their scripts without writing any code.

CodeToGo: CodeToGo enables programmers to write and run code in a variety of programming languages including Python. Along with saving the code automatically, CodeToGo further allows programmers to load files from Dropbox and transfer the files from computer. It even adds an extra row of commonly used keys to the keyboard to facilitate code writing. The web developers also have option to render the code output as HTML. So they can easily view the code in HTML simply by clicking on the “Render as HTML" button after running the program.

Gusto: Code Editor and FTP Client: Many developers rely on Gusto to manage and edit websites directly from their websites. Gusto identifies the project and generates thumbnails for the website. So it becomes easier for web developers to download multiple files and folders from their FTP server. After editing a document, they can check the updates by previewing the document locally. They can further transfer and publish the updated files through the built-in FTP/SFTP client. However, at present Gusto is not compatible with iOS 7.

Qpython: Python for Android: As a script engine, QPython makes it easier for programmers to run Python scripts on Android devices. Along with a development kit to develop Python projects, it also comes with Python interpreter, console and editor. At the same time, the developers can also use the L4A Library for Android to access the device’s network, GPS and Bluetooth. As QPython also supports Web App programming, the programmers can create mobile apps rapidly by using web development frameworks.

920 Text Editor: The powerful text editor makes it easier for developers to view and edit their code directly from the Android device. Also, the programmers have option to use the text editor as an eBook reader to open txt novel. It allows users to open and edit multiple files at a time by opening them in different tabs. Also, the programmers can avail features like syntax highlighting, show line number and show blank characters. In addition to detecting the current file encoding, the application further allows programmers to change the current file encoding.

Touchqode: The mobile code editor supports several programming languages including Python. It also comes with some of the features offered by desktop IDEs including auto-completion of code and syntax highlighting. The programmers can further use Touchqode as a text editor, HTML editor or notepad. The Pro version of Touchqode allows developers to avail a set of advanced features like file type recognition, bash support and special keys.

On the whole, the programmers have option to choose from several Python editors for tablet development. So they can easily choose the right editor by comparing the features according to their specific needs. To get maximum benefits of Python development, you may consider hiring services of a custom Python development company.

We provide Python development services. To outsource Python application development needs of your organization or to hire Python developers from us, please reach out to us at Mindfire Solutions.

Tuesday 19 August 2014

Few Reasons to Choose ROR for prototyping web apps

Ruby software development, Rails CMS Development services, certified Rails ProgrammersThe question of developing web apps in the fastest way has always been there. Developers had always weighed various options that included Java, Ruby, Python, and the likes. However, after weighing all the options, they have come to the very conclusion that when it comes to developing or prototyping web apps, Ruby on Rails in the best choice. This notion has been fanned by the fact that a large number of companies have benefited from the agility of this open source application framework along with the speed at which it becomes possible to develop the apps with its help. This at the end of the day has helped the companies increase their productivity as well as growth, which is why they have attributed their success to ROR.

Build logs for the app

This is one of the most important reasons why ROR is used for prototyping web apps. Ruby on Rail allows the developers in building business logics in no more than ten minutes. This means that there is no need to go for configuration or constructing set up separately, which would have taken much longer.

ROR allows the basic features to be generated – not just coding them

With the help of infrastructures as well as the generators of Rails, it becomes possible to set up an app with user login, signup along with some other basic features, user management, some nice layouts, etc. without even writing a single code line.

Developers of Ruby are familiar with writing tests of their own code

ROR comes up with number unique frameworks that are exclusively designed for testing. The developers who design Rails generally test their own codes as well as logics with the help of these frameworks. When we speak about testing, it involves unit and integration tests, evaluation of functionality, and a series of other high end assessments. There are certain frameworks that would even allow the developers to write user stories in the form of normal sentences. These sentences are subsequently transformed into test cases that can be executed if and when needed.

It helps in continuous learning

The Rail developer fraternity has always dealt with the latest in the world of technology and innovation. Hence, they always go through a process of learning new things and testing them. This is possible when they deal with ROR. Developers of ROR normally are able to provide strong technology related consultations as they have the very latest knowledge regarding the customer development process as well as the Lean StartUp methodology.

ROR helps in easy and faster deployment and has easier scalability

When we talk about the deployment of ROR applications, there are a number of options available. It is possible to use several platforms such as Heroku. Also, there is the option of building own deployments in the cloud. It also has greater scalability. That means it helps to gauge the functionality of the developed app with more precision.

Besides, ROR also integrates the app with other services via the API with the use of the official libraries. This is because the majority of the service providers supports the official Ruby libraries that have connectivity to their respective APIs.

Also, the ROR project structure is easier to understand and this comes in handy when a new developer joins a particular project. The person is able to start working with new features, and get on with fixing the bugs without any difficulty whatsoever, very shortly.

Frankly speaking, it is really hard not to understand a ROR project.

Helps in cost cutting

Last but not the least, the speed at which development is done impacts the budget allotted for development. The longer a development takes, the more the costs soar, and from this point of view, ROR really cuts the costs, and helps in a lot of cost savings when compared to other technologies. To get maximum benefits of Python development, you may consider hiring services of a Ruby software development company.

We provide Rails CMS Development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified Rails programmers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Wednesday 13 August 2014

Django - Why is it the best web framework for Python?

custom Python development company, Python development services, hire Python developersDjango is a web framework based on Python which encourages pragmatic, clean design as well as rapid development. This high-level, open source framework allows the building of elegant, high-performing, feature-rich as well as clean applications quickly. Since the basis of Django is Python it is enriched with all the features as well as advantages of Python. The elegant and clean syntax has full support of a huge library of contributed as well as standard modules that cover a vast range of actions. Naturally, this ensures that it remains the best web framework for Python.

Beautiful, readable URLs- Generally URLs of websites developed in PHP or ASP cannot be read properly. It is here that Django stands apart; the URLs developed here are perfectly readable. This is not only good for the humans but for search engines as well since it is a factor for page importance, making it search engine friendly. URL construction of some other frameworks is somewhat close to it but the ease of creation makes using Django URLs a nice experience.

Powerful ORM system- The Object-Relational Mapping system of this platform is really robust, supporting huge data systems set. Simple changing of a configuration file helps in engine switching. Thus changing database engines is a really flexible option for the developer. In fact this flexibility can be seen when you want to customize parts of a web site as well, so that the project’s need, can be suited. There is no need to rely on applications that are pre-built.

Coding in Python- It is agreed by most programmers that one of the simplest existing programming languages is Python; belying its simplicity it is nevertheless extremely powerful as well. Its easily understandable syntax allows anybody to start coding and then make a smooth eventual transition to Django. Just like Python has a powerful backup, this framework also has a huge selection of third-party packages and libraries which may be integrated easily so that its features can be supplemented.

High security levels- The manner of development as well as installation of the framework allows a greater security level when it is compared to any website developed in some other language or platform. This is due to the fact that your website’s source code is not directly and wholly exposed to the online viewers or the internet; the css files as well as html may be seen. Generally, there is dynamic generation of web pages which then use templates to reach the browser.

An organized and structured MTV architecture- MTV stands for model, template and views. According to the coding scheme, the website building is done in phases. The setting up of database is done through the code’s abstract representatives, which are known as models. The views allow laying and individual coding of the features. Templates allow the designing of front-end designs as well as displays. Finally everything is woven as one by delicate code snippets and URL maps. Thus the various parts of a site are developed and then integrated together later on. This ensures that development does not stagger at any stage.

Unique template system- Templates may not seem to be worth any efforts but the templates of the framework are different from the general ideas that we have. The templates developed help create a feel and look that is website-specific. This results in a unique look of the site. Another important feature of this system is that the templates are injected with programming logic. This allows in simplification of everything, making the adoption easy as well as clear and speeding up the development process.

Frankly speaking, there can be no other better option for Python development than the Django framework. Apart from the huge benefits that the framework offers, the biggest reason for the adoption is that its very development has been on the Python language which naturally lends a lot of common, mutually shared advantages. A programmer who is adept in Python can easily carry on the process over Django without much of an extra effort. To get maximum benefits of Python development, you may consider hiring services of a custom Python development company company.

We provide Python development services. To hire Python developers from us, please reach out to us at Mindfire Solutions.

Why do businesses consider services of a good web development company?

custom software development India, Offshore web development, hire offshore developersWith internet marketing ruling the roost these days, a professional-looking as well as user-friendly website is the need of the hour for any business. To help concentrate on the business aspect better, most people these days are transferring the job of web development to the professionals who have both experience and skill in this field. A fraction of the crowd still hesitates about hiring an outsider to portray a business that they are most familiar with. But there are lots of reasons which have made it mandatory for businesses to hire professional services.

Skill, expertise and experience- It is true that a business owner will know various facets of the industry which will never be properly ascertained by third party. But they do have a huge advantage; they are experts in what they do. They design websites day in and day out which makes them totally familiar with the all the idiosyncrasies of the related work. They are in constant touch with the user-base, so they know what that crowd is expecting and what will satiate their expectations. This leads them to incorporate only the elements which they know will benefit the users; all needless stuff is trimmed out to make the content fresh, crisp as well as precise.

Planning- Being engrossed with the various aspects of a company can often hamper the marketing view, especially if it is online. So it is best that the owner focuses on the production along with other related aspects and let the professional web development company focus on the online marketing aspect. A plan or strategy is especially important since buyers first gather plenty of information through online research before doing anything. Being familiar with everything, the professionals will plan out a good strategy; having a good plan makes it easy to chalk out several possibilities and then carry them out accordingly.

Features combined with usability- These days, just a simple good-looking website is not enough to attract the crowd. It should be engaging enough so that the visitors are retained. As a consequence they incorporate a lot of features to make it attractive. Several interactive elements like forums, videos, etc are added as well. At the same time, they also ensure that all the elements are working properly along with providing a smooth usability factor.

Search Engine Optimization- A great website is must but another must is promotion to target audience. The best possible way of achieving high online visibility is through good rankings on search engines like Yahoo, MSN, Google, etc. This can be done successfully through implementation of various SEO strategies. The professional companies have SEO experts who can do this very easily so that the business can get good rankings in the search engines.

Social media marketing- With the increasing dependency of the youth brigade on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc it is essential to tap the social media platforms as well. By virtue of a good web design company, it is easy for a business to conduct social media campaigns regularly to help in viral marketing as well as branding.

One step ahead of competitors- Doing business is not just about promoting your business but to always keep your eyes open to what your competition is up to. The specialized companies help you do that by staying in sync with recent technologies as well as trends; these are implemented in the business so that they always stay ahead of the game.

It has become necessary for businesses to not only cater to the users but also to stand out from the crowd. A professional help allows them to do just that. With many tools, tips and tricks they help a business achieve its maximum potential to attract most number of customers to the web page so that revenues can be boosted. To get maximum benefits of web development, you may consider hiring services of a custom software development India company.

We provide offshore web development services. To hire offshore developers from us, please reach out to Mindfire Solutions.

Friday 1 August 2014

Python's ArcPy Enables Easy Monitoring of Teams

custom Python Development company, Python Development, hire Python developersLillian Pierson is a spatial data scientist and fond of different spatial data analyze apps, she especially likes ESRI due to the automation it has and also for it's scripting capabilities. ESRI created a unique python library known as ArcPy. Using this library one can process, analyze, manipulate, and also watch spatial informatics all together. This automation ability can actually save the managers as well as the expert analysts countless hours which they would have usually consume during manual application and also repeat of spatial data analysing assignments. For demonstrative purposes, she was provided with the below mentioned example.

Around a year ago she was served with the below problem. One GIS manager who had a number of GIS experts digitizing stormwater infrastructure with as-built drawings. Every infrastructure kind had been digitized within it’s own individual shapefile, subsequently for the manholes it had a layer, for the gravity main it had a layer, and so on. Once concluding every single subdivision, the technician would normally make a polygon across that field in order to indicate that as complete and also to recognize individual responsibility regarding that part of the work product. The issue among all this had been that the GIS manager was not able to inform the amount of features was basically digitized through the polygon areas. Few subdivisions had been sparse in the infrastructure, and others had been really dense. Therefore, the amount of work carried out had not been really featured through the areas addressed by every single technician. For the project management use, the manager required a method to track, compare, and also to contrast just how much real digitizing services had been done by every single technician.

The manager wanted to have the ability in order to query any sort of date range with this information and then he wanted to get some data at a glance graphics to provide an instant idea of what exactly is going on with no trouble at his part. Being aware of ArcPy, the answer for this issue had been quite easy for Lillian. They required a python script which could clip all the infrastructure depending on the area polygon, and generate a tabular data table putting together the info for every infrastructure feature developed, date:time developed, as well as the name of the technician accountable for that entry. Finally, the script required to develop a basic visual-analytic output to present the manager infrastructure counts as well as a visual comparison of the work volumes carried out by every GIS technician.

Working with the ArcPy, Lillian completed the script code by the following day. Since that time, the manager continues to use the same script in order to easily and quickly query on, track, and evaluate the effectiveness of every one of his employees at any time period he therefore wants. This enables him to handle his staff more easity and also early detect whenever such involvements are be required. This had been an important requirement which was earlier could not be fulfilled due to the fact manual processing and also analysis had been time prohibitive. These days, using ESRI’s ArcPy package, a permanent solution can be coded up by the very next working day with no extra expenses on a hiring manager. To get maximum benefits of Python development, you may consider hiring services of a custom Python development company.

We provide Python development services. To hire Python developers from us, please reach out to Mindfire Solutions.