Mobile and web applications are important tools for boosting productivity and revenue. This digital infrastructure needs development and maintenance, just like your business’s physical components.
In many cases, Backbone.js is the framework these programs use. In fact, 880 million sites still operate with Backbone.js. Despite being around since 2010, this JavaScript feature is still an efficient choice for interactive web and mobile apps with high functionality.
For instance, SoundCloud hired Backbone.js programmers for the front end of their mobile app and desktop website. The organizational, flexible, and lightweight qualities make the architecture ideal for their use case.
However, the system’s age and the rise of many alternatives means hiring Backbone.js developers can be a challenge. Indeed, finding talented tech professionals is difficult for most companies, as the unemployment rate is down and the number of job postings is climbing.
Still, to compete in a tight marketplace, you need experienced software engineers. With this guide, you can better appreciate what Backbone.js developers do and whether hiring Backbone.js freelancers is a good idea. You will also discover the skills to look for and techniques for interviewing and hiring the top candidates.
Hiring a Freelance Backbone.js Developer
In recent years, many businesses have shifted toward hiring freelancers for the flexibility it offers. If you decide to hire a freelance Backbone.js developer, you can count on having a larger talent pool to draw from.
This wider net also lets you bring in unique experiences and skills you might not get otherwise. These professionals can bring in a fresh perspective for an additional competitive edge.What Does a Backbone.js Developer Do?
Your business may benefit from finding Backbone.js developers for hire to create web and mobile apps. That is because Backbone.js is a lightweight library and framework that developers use for structuring Javascript code.
In particular, Backbone.js is suitable for developing single-page applications (SPAs). These apps run entirely in a web browser and let you do a variety of actions on a single page with a smooth user experience. (Gmail, Facebook, and Pinterest are good examples of companies with popular SPAs.)
Backbone.js enables the browser to load dynamic resources for fluid navigation. This may include opening, responding to, deleting, and flagging messages. Users can engage with interactive elements on one page instead of navigating to different URLs for each action. Therefore, web apps operate as easily as desktop programs for greater flexibility and mobility.
What do Backbone.js developers do with these capabilities? They can design high-quality and efficient apps. The library’s event-driven communication can prevent cluttered code, making testing and maintenance easier.
As Boris Smus explains:“Backbone… introduces concepts of views, models, a restful sync interface, routers, etc, in surprisingly little code. Backbone is the darling of microframework lovers, who highly value small framework size and don't want to commit to a single "full stack" solution. Backbone is incredibly flexible.”
Also, top developers understand how to take advantage of the library’s many extensions. This allows for even quicker coding and greater functionality. For these reasons, brands such as Uber, Pinterest, Reddit, LinkedIn, Accenture, Coursera, and Walmart have hired dedicated Backbone.js developers.
Granted, Backbone.js is best for small-scale applications and new web apps. Once you are ready to migrate to a newer framework, such as React, you still need to find a Backbone.js engineer for the upgrade.
Why Hire Backbone.js Developers?
When designing light, versatile, and interactive web apps, a Backbone.js developer is invaluable. Another reason why hiring a Backbone.js developer is a good idea is to maintain these tools or transition them to a more advanced setup.
What Can Backbone.js Developers Do for Your Business?
A knowledgeable Backbone.js programmer delivers unique skill sets that can benefit your business.
Familiarity With Front-End Libraries
A solid Backbone.js developer comprehends the principles on which front-end libraries operate. Coming to a project with a full understanding of how these libraries work lets a developer quickly create efficient code without unnecessary repetition.
Open libraries also let the developer standardize components for uniformity to boost app speed and responsiveness. Plus, when problems arise, the developer can turn to a community for support for troubleshooting.
Ability To Maintain and Update Legacy Systems
Though Backbone.js is an older framework, it remains a great starting point for companies that are creating new apps. A Backbone.js specialist keeps your system up-to-date and secure.
After some time, you may want to augment your code or migrate a platform to React and TypeScript. You still need to hire a Backbone.js coder to make the switch with minimal headaches.
Proficiency With Modular Code Organization
Efficient lines are always preferable to sloppy, cluttered code. Because Backbone.js tends to be modular with its models and views, developers with experience working with this library can use these principles when programming in other languages. As a result, all of your apps are easier to maintain and extend.
Experience Using RESTful APIs
Connectivity is another essential aspect of apps and networks. RESTful API is an interface that lets two or more devices securely exchange information for smooth data synchronization and app integrations.
Strong Skills in JavaScript and Web Development Concepts
Backbone.js supports JavaScript, the third most popular programming language. This code is usually behind dynamic web pages. If you need to create or work with interactive web pages, a developer with JavaScript knowledge is a must.
Additionally, these developers know how to work with the Document Object Model (DOM). Understanding this representation makes it easier to manipulate site structure and content when necessary.
How To Hire Backbone.js Developers
Begin by gathering stakeholders to define what the Backbone.js developer role requires. You can determine this by outlining the scope of the project, including the timeframe and budget. Use historical data from your company or a similar business for an objective starting point.
Now, your team can decide where to look to hire a Backbone.js developer. You have an endless number of job boards and freelance marketplaces to turn to. To simplify the process and leave practically no work on your end, look at our list of the top sites for hiring Backbone.js developers.
Bear in mind that outsourcing agencies might make hiring easy but come at a premium price. The top freelance marketplaces can provide as good or better quality without the added expense.
On the other hand, you may be comfortable doing more of the legwork and vetting. In that case, you could network with others in your industry for recommendations. If augmenting an existing IT team with freelancers, they will likely have good suggestions about how to hire Backbone.js developers.
Identify whether you require a junior, mid-level, or senior developer:
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Junior devs: Have 1-3 years of experience and can handle standard coding tasks with guidance
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Mid-level devs: Have 3-5 years of work experience, can take on considerable portions of a large project independently, handle small projects alone, and efficiently test and debug code
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Senior devs: Have over 5 years of experience, know multiple programming languages, can lead teams on large projects, and provide top-tier consultation and advice
Coding boot camps can be a good option for finding inexpensive junior developers. When you want assured project success, opt for a senior engineer.
The Skills To Look for When Hiring a Backbone.js Developer
Give due attention to the soft skills an applicant needs. These may be harder to measure but are no less important.
Communication is key, especially when hiring a remote freelancer. The developer needs to interact with UI/UX designers to build an engaging front end. Discussions with back-end programmers ensure seamless API integrations.
Look for emotional intelligence, critical thinking, adaptability, and strong time management . These qualities help you identify standout candidates. Furthermore, one of your top preferred qualifications should be someone who has worked with other companies in your vertical and can understand your specific concerns and pain points.
As far as technical Backbone.js developer skills, search for someone who knows:
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JavaScript programming language
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CSS computer language for controlling page layout and presentation
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HTML language for web markup
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Scripting and visualization
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Patch management and database management
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VPN configuration, firewall management, and network monitoring for security
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VMware for running virtual systems
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Code versioning and its tools, such as Git, for additional resources and support
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REST API concepts for integrations
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Basic back-end development technologies
Also, Backbone.js is an evolution of the Model-View-Controller (MVC) design pattern. Therefore, a developer working in the framework must have a firm grasp of the concepts behind MVC.
How Much It Costs To Hire Backbone.js Developers
The average annual salary for a Backbone.js developer is $129,348 at the time of this writing. On an hourly basis, this equals $62.19. The highest recorded rate is $158,500 ($76.20/hour), while the low end fetches $40,000 ($19.23/hour).
Tips for Writing a Backbone.js Developer Job Description
Keep your Backbone.js developer job description clear and succinct. A template can help you stay on track.
Start by introducing your company and sharing what makes it unique in a couple of sentences. Then, provide a few sentences for the job description. Put the core responsibilities in a bulleted list.
Wrap up with skills and qualifications the developer must have. Here you should note other libraries, frameworks, and technologies the applicant should know. Specify the required certifications or degrees.
Common Interview Questions To Ask When You Are Looking To Hire a Backbone.js Developer
Keep your interviews and assessments fair with a consistent process that provides an objective view of each candidate. For technical expertise, you could opt for testing software.
Pair programming exercises, where the applicant performs a task with one of your IT staff, can provide insight into technical and soft skills. Also, consider using blind questionnaires and behavioral interviews to ensure you have an unbiased process.
Importantly, select well-prepared questions for an insightful and efficient interview.| How can you monitor changes on a single attribute of a model in Backbone.js? | Whenever data changes within a model, model objects fire a “change” event. Then, the object fires another event, which has a name specific to the changed attribute. |
| What does a View do in Backbone.js? | A view listens to events and reacts to them. It also defines the end user interface. |
| How can you get two-way data binding between HTML elements and Backbone.js models? | Include the ModelBinder plugin with the project. The code and documentation are available on GitHub. |
| What is your greatest weakness? | Look for honesty and self-awareness that demonstrates a willingness to keep learning. The answer should show how the candidate is actively addressing the weakness. |
| Share an example of how you recently dealt with a stressful situation. | Discover specifics about how the applicant responds under stress. Get a clearer understanding of the person’s problem-solving skills. |
| How would you explain the MVC design pattern to a non-technical teammate? | Learn how well the individual communicates. Ask for multiple clarifications to gauge the person’s level of patience. |
How To Find Freelance Backbone.js Developers for Hire
There are many platforms where you can find Backbone.js developers for hire. To quickly find the top freelancers who are within your budget, review our list of the best sites to hire Backbone.js engineers. With Toptal (our #1 choice), you can connect to high-quality developers with no hassle and no extra work on your end.
Your development team thrives when you strategically hire Backbone.js developers for web and mobile apps. Stay abreast of the current job market and rely on proven interviewing and vetting tools and techniques to draw in top talent. With the right developers, you can execute successful projects and long-term outcomes.