Question

we’re in the process of deciding our next web application framework strategy, and there’s a lot to think about.

After going over several solutions, we’ve restricted our sight to 2 RIA frameworks: extJS and GWT.

Which one would you suggest between these two?

We’re already experienced in jQuery, should it somehow matter.

Thanks.

Answer 1

While it is not possible to provide an objective answer to your question without being intimately familiar with your project’s situation here are a few things to consider –

• ExtJS will require JavaScript expertise (in addition to the familiarity required with the ExtJS api itself)
• Even if you use ExtJS for your front end, you will still need Java (or whatever server side language you choose) expertise for your server side logic.
• In comparision, with GWT you can do with lesser level of Javascript expertise. You do have to get to know the GWT way (and tools for) of development, the api, etc.
• Both will allow you to do whatever you want in terms of your front end capability.
• While comparing available widgets, etc consider the huge number of ExtJS extensions and plugins available. These are as valuable as the core ExtJS widgets in some situations.
• Ext GWT seems like an option but I would rather use ExtJS OR GWT than use a combination of both unless there is a very specific reason.
• If you have JavaScript expertise but no Java AND there is no specific reason to use Java, I would go for ExtJS (and a server side language with simpler learning curve than Java)

(Very) Slightly related post here