Member Article

Is mobile backend as a service vital to develop mobile apps?

There are various technologies out there that make the life a lot easier for the developers and then we have the MBaaS approach makes it easier for mobile app developers to work on the back end as then it’d be easier to focus on the front end and user experience. However, ultimately an app is responsible for that.

It’s certainly time-consuming, resource-intensive and expensive to develop mobile apps tying into back-end infrastructure. As a service Mobile backend cuts through the red tape and saves IT and developers’ time and money.

With Mobile backend as a service (MBaaS), there is no need to set up servers build authentication components, plan for scalability, customize systems or take various steps to implement and support a complex back-end infrastructure. However, MBaaS may not be required with a new technology, however, do consider the pros and cons of this approach as then you can find out whether it is apt for their needs or not. When in the right circumstances, MBaaS offers various enterprise benefits; however, it may not be suitable for every organization.

Developers are required to make sure that their apps work best for the API-driven model. With a mobile backend as a service provider, the developers get a common set of APIs making it easier to connect to back-end resources. This way you can simplify and unify development efforts across various platforms. With MBaaS, there is no need to set up outmoded application stacks and repeat boilerplate code as you provide a sore set of back-end services like data storage, geolocation, push notifications and user authentication and management.

Using MBaaS, developers can easily focus on the front-end application and user experience. It’s easier to develop mobile apps and present them out there in the market in an easier manner sans any obstacles on the way. It’s of extreme value to implement short-term projects IT needs. For instance, a small startup can go for MBaaS when keen on establishing itself quickly; however, lacking the capital or long-range need for an extensive back-end infrastructure.

Mobile backend as a service isn’t for everyone

Developers must ensure that their apps are just best for the API-driven model supported by MBaaS. At the same time, the app’s logic is quite easier for the MBaaS environment while it also has exceptional back-end requirement not available through MBaaS.

It’s easier for developers to select features and manage their data however with MBaaS you also have no control over the back-end infrastructure. This way even minor optimizations turn difficult to implement. Anyone who uses MBaaS can utilize the provider’s capabilities. Like, a provider may handle all back-end operations at a single data center. As an app is distributed to users all over the world, the farthest one can experience latency and connectivity issues.

However, as any cloud provider is used, companies must understand the risks and liabilities involved in outsourcing to a third-party service. This way it’s easier to ensure that the provider is allowed to the same oversight and governance just as internal operations.

Consider the costs of mobile backend as a service

Now as the initial startup fees are considered, MBaaS services may appear appealing. However it’s advised that the companies think of long-term costs. When an app is resource intensive, its lifecycle is going to be longer, and MBaaS is going to be less cost-effective. It’s necessary on the part of organizations to set an investigation over the financial stability of a prospective MBaaS provider. In case the provider goes out of business, it’s may become necessary for the developers to start their apps from the scratch.

Meanwhile, even though there are several disadvantages, still MBaaS is turning to gain immense prominence in the industry while the key players are certain to shine out, with MBaaS technologies proving to be more efficient and robust. Those who consider MBaaS options are required to evaluate them on an app by app basi

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Octal Info Solution Limited .