React

React is a JavaScript library for building user interfaces, created and maintained by Meta (Facebook). It's the most popular frontend framework in the world, used by companies from startups to Fortune 500 enterprises to build fast, interactive web applications.

Why React is so popular

React changed how developers build websites by introducing a component-based architecture. Instead of building pages as monolithic blocks of HTML, you build small, reusable components (a button, a navigation bar, a product card) and compose them together. This makes code more organised, reusable, and maintainable.

Other reasons for React's popularity:

• Performance: React uses a "virtual DOM" that minimises expensive browser updates, making interfaces feel snappy.
• Ecosystem: Thousands of pre-built components, libraries, and tools are available.
• Community: Massive community means abundant tutorials, Stack Overflow answers, and developers for hire.
• Flexibility: React handles the view layer and lets you choose your own tools for routing, state management, and styling.

React vs traditional websites

A traditional website (built with WordPress or plain HTML) loads a new page from the server every time you navigate. A React application loads once and then updates dynamically — content changes without full page reloads, creating a smoother, app-like experience.

Next.js: React for production

Most production React applications today use Next.js, a framework built on top of React. Next.js adds crucial features like:

• Server-side rendering (better SEO and faster initial load)
• Static site generation (pre-built pages for maximum speed)
• Built-in routing, image optimisation, and API routes
• Easy deployment to platforms like Vercel

When React makes sense for your business

React (typically via Next.js) is the right choice when you're building:

• A web application with complex interactivity (dashboards, editors, data visualisation).
• A customer-facing product where user experience is critical.
• A platform that needs to scale and evolve over time.
• Any project where you want access to the largest pool of available developers.

For a simple informational website with minimal interactivity, React may be more than you need — a CMS or website builder might be more cost-effective.