Custom ERP software development is a significant and time-consuming undertaking. Planning and strategizing is essential, but the most important consideration is which technologies to use to make it a reality. PHP and Node.js are two of the most common back-end technologies we use when building commercial software.
This article will go over the most important things to know about ERP development in PHP and Node.js. From a technical and business point of view, we put together a guide on when to use each technology and the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.
Technical comparison of PHP and Node.js
Both PHP and Node.js are the most popular and widely used back-end technologies to develop web ERP systems and other business software. But each of these technologies has its advantages and disadvantages. The final decision is based on how PHP or Node can contribute to the project and whether or not there is a good match between them.
PHP: A Language That’s Survived the test of time.
PHP was first developed in 1995, but it is still thriving and has a sizable market share in the web development industry. In addition to WordPress, the well-known content management system, this technology is used by complex web platforms and applications like Etsy, Mailchimp, and Slack.
PHP has the following advantages:
- toolset for standard software development tasks of any size
- stability;
- high levels of efficiency;
- relatively fast rendering on the server-side
- frameworks such as Laravel, Yii, Cake, and Code Igniter are readily available.
Many PHP ERP system developers prefer Laravel because of the ease with which it communicates with databases. Asynchronous architectures aren’t supported in PHP because of their peculiarities. Another major back-end technology comes in handy in this situation, as well.
Full-Stack JavaScript Development with Node.js
Contrary to popular belief, Node Back-end JS code is executed in the js runtime environment, which is not a language or framework. Since its debut in 2009, the programming community and corporations worldwide have been embracing Node.
There are numerous advantages to using Node.js, including:
- an event-driven, asynchronous architecture
- Scalability is excellent;
- we tend to apply the MEAN stack because it allows us to use a single programming language for both the front and back ends
- Quick and easy cashing.
However, the most pressing issue with Node is its inability to perform CPU-intensive tasks efficiently. However, it’s possible to use Node.js without giving up heavy computations by opting for a microservice architecture. It might be good for ERP software development to break it up into microservices linked by an API instead of creating a single monolithic application. As a result, the application’s core can be built on Node.js and run smoothly, while other frameworks can handle CPU-intensive services like advanced analytics.
PHP vs. Node.js for ERP Development
These two languages are often cited as incompatible with ERP development for various reasons. PHP and Node.js, on the other hand, are frequently used to build business applications, and doing so is especially real if you involve experienced developers who know the technology and have been working with it for years. PHP and Node.js
A PHP-based ERP system is preferable if your ERP system does not necessitate many client-server interactions of heavy operation. On the other hand, Node.js should be your technology of choice if you want a lot of real-time operations and an excellent user experience.
ERP development on PHP and Node.js in terms of business aspects.
When deciding on back-end technology, don’t just look at its technical capabilities. Aside from hiring challenges and overall speed and development efficiency, the cost is a major deciding factor. Compare our two technologies using these metrics.
Amount charged for each hour.
A custom ERP software development can take anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the size and difficulty of the project. For a long-term investment, it’s only natural to look at various possibilities. PHP developers earn significantly less than Node.js developers. Specialists in these technologies can expect to be paid the following:
Our recommendation will not be made solely based on hourly rates, however. Some technologies are better suited for certain types of ERP software, while others are better suited for faster and smoother development.
Workforce
Because PHP has been around for so long, it’s much easier to find and hire experienced developers who’ve seen it all. PHP developers with specific expertise, such as custom ERP software development, are even more likely to be found, and they will know how to use PHP to develop ERP software. They will be aware of any issues and how to work around them.
While Node is still in its infancy, it has a lot of potential. Developers with a breadth of experience and knowledge of the language are hard to come by, but those that exist are in short supply.
The rate of progress
Node.js deserves special attention at this juncture. Many companies have demonstrated that Node.js development moves more quickly. The MEAN stack is frequently used in our case (MongoDB, Express.js, Angular, and Node.js). To save everyone time, JS is used on both the front and back ends of the application.
Custom ERP Software: How Should the Back-end Technology Be Selected?
So, what’s the best way for you to make up your mind? A thorough review of your project’s scope and an understanding of its requirements are essential. However, if your project is still in its early life, it may be difficult to come up with a clear picture of your ideal ERP system. Consequently, you’ll get a thorough examination of your application, which will cover
- technical stack (including back-end languages chosen specifically for you) must be described in detail;
- and a component diagram of the infrastructure
- functional and non-functional requirements
- a detailed description of the product;
- UX/UI wireframes;
- structure and budget for the team
- description of the management of the process.
The discovery stage helps the project run smoothly and ensures that it complies with the development team’s expectations and the customer. It is particularly relevant in the case of custom ERP software, as successful completion requires a great deal of synchronization and resources.
To sum it up
Your ERP development journey does not begin and ends with your choice of back-end technology. Keep in mind your software’s specifications as you search for solutions. When looking at new technologies, consider how they might benefit your project.
It’s important to remember that there is no single “good” or “bad” programming language. In the end, it’s up to the developer’s knowledge and experience to determine whether or not the technology is being used correctly and effectively. In addition, it doesn’t matter if you’re working with PHP or Node.js; you can always produce an effective piece of software.