Cordova, also known as Apache Cordova, is a mobile application development framework originally created by Nitobi. Adobe Systems purchased Nitobi in 2011, rebranded it as PhoneGap, and later released an open-source version of the software called Apache Cordova. This glossary entry will delve into the intricate details of Cordova in the context of DevOps, a set of practices that combines software development and IT operations. It aims to shorten the systems development life cycle and provide continuous delivery with high software quality.
DevOps is a culture, movement, or practice that emphasizes the collaboration and communication of both software developers and other information-technology (IT) professionals while automating the process of software delivery and infrastructure changes. It aims at establishing a culture and environment where building, testing, and releasing software can happen rapidly, frequently, and more reliably, and in a DevOps environment, cross-functionality, shared responsibilities, and trust are promoted.
Definition of Cordova in DevOps
Cordova, in the context of DevOps, is a tool that facilitates the development of mobile applications using CSS3, HTML5, and JavaScript, instead of relying on platform-specific APIs. As a part of DevOps practices, Cordova can help in automating the deployment, scaling, and management of mobile applications, thereby improving the efficiency of the development process.
It is a platform for building native mobile applications using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This allows developers to build applications for mobile devices using CSS3, HTML5, and JavaScript instead of relying on platform-specific APIs like those in Android, iOS, or Windows Phone. It extends the features of HTML and JavaScript to work with the device. The resulting applications are hybrid, meaning that they are neither truly native mobile applications (because all layout rendering is done via web views instead of the platform's native UI framework) nor purely web-based (because they are not just web apps, but are packaged as apps for distribution and have access to native device APIs).
Role of Cordova in DevOps
Cordova plays a crucial role in DevOps by enabling developers to create mobile applications with a single, reusable codebase. This can significantly speed up the development process, reduce the risk of bugs, and make it easier to update and maintain the application. In a DevOps environment, where the goal is to release software updates frequently and reliably, this can be a significant advantage.
Moreover, Cordova's plugin architecture allows developers to add native functionality to their applications using JavaScript, which can further enhance the user experience. This aligns with the DevOps principle of continuous improvement, where teams are always looking for ways to improve their products and processes.
History of Cordova
The history of Cordova is closely tied to the evolution of mobile application development. In the early days of mobile apps, developers had to write separate codebases for each platform they wanted to support. This was a time-consuming and error-prone process, and it made it difficult to update and maintain the apps.
In 2009, a company called Nitobi created PhoneGap, a tool that allowed developers to build mobile apps using web technologies and then wrap them in a native application shell. This made it possible to write a single codebase that could run on multiple platforms. Adobe Systems acquired Nitobi in 2011 and rebranded PhoneGap as Cordova. They also released an open-source version of the software, which is maintained by the Apache Software Foundation.
Impact of Cordova on DevOps
The introduction of Cordova had a significant impact on DevOps practices. By enabling developers to write a single codebase for multiple platforms, it made the development process more efficient and reliable. This aligns with the DevOps principles of automation and continuous delivery.
Furthermore, Cordova's plugin architecture allows for the integration of native device functionality, which can enhance the user experience and provide additional value to the customer. This is in line with the DevOps principle of customer-centric action, where the focus is on delivering value to the end user.
Use Cases of Cordova in DevOps
Cordova has a wide range of use cases in DevOps, particularly in the development of mobile applications. For example, a team could use Cordova to develop a cross-platform mobile app for a company's internal use. The app could be used to track sales, manage inventory, or facilitate communication between team members.
Another use case could be a public-facing mobile app for a retail business. The app could include features like online shopping, customer reviews, and a store locator. By using Cordova, the development team could create a single codebase that works on multiple platforms, making the app more accessible to a wider audience.
Examples of Cordova in DevOps
One specific example of Cordova in DevOps is its use in the development of the Wikipedia mobile app. The app was built using Cordova, which allowed the development team to create a single codebase that could be deployed on multiple platforms. This made the development process more efficient and ensured that the app could reach a wide audience.
Another example is the Salesforce Mobile SDK, which uses Cordova to provide a set of tools for building enterprise-grade mobile apps. The SDK includes Cordova plugins for accessing Salesforce data, and it allows developers to write apps in JavaScript that can run on both iOS and Android devices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cordova plays a significant role in DevOps by enabling the efficient and reliable development of mobile applications. Its ability to support a single, reusable codebase and integrate native device functionality aligns with the principles of automation, continuous delivery, and customer-centric action that are central to DevOps practices.
From its origins as PhoneGap to its current status as an open-source project maintained by the Apache Software Foundation, Cordova has had a significant impact on the evolution of mobile application development and continues to be a valuable tool in the DevOps toolkit.