Key Takeaways
1. React Native is an open-source, JavaScript framework that has become one of the most popular frameworks for developing mobile applications with companies such as Facebook, Uber and Airbnb using it for their mobile app development.
2. This software enables the development of apps that look, feel and perform as though they were native to a particular device and due to its cross-platform development capability, React Native can be used for both Android and iOS applications simultaneously.
3. The high performance, ease of maintenance as well as fast update and development time of this software are some of the benefits that businesses can take advantage of by hiring a Native React developer.
4. When looking to hire a React Native developer it is important to clearly outline the project requirements and assess candidates on both their technical and soft skills.
5. As a leading Global PEO, Horizons can support your company to hire React Native developers from anywhere in the world, while maintaining full legal compliance.
Introduction to React Native: A Game-Changer in Mobile App Development
First developed by Facebook in March 2015, React Native is an open-source JavaScript framework for developing mobile applications for iOS and Android. This technology allows developers to create applications that look, feel and perform as though they are developed for that particular device, known as ‘native apps’. Its single codebase gives it its cross-platform capabilities and since JavaScript contains pre-built components on iOS and Android, React Native offers the basic structure needed to build a mobile application, saving developers from having to recreate the same one from start on a different platform.
Along with other cross-platform app development frameworks such as Node.js, Xamarin and Kotlin Multiplatform Mobile, React Native is currently one of the most popular and is used by many successful businesses across a range of industries including Facebook, Airbnb, Bloomberg and Uber.
This article will look into the role of a React Native developer and discuss the benefits of hiring one for your business.
What is a React Native developer?
Video: What is React Native?
What are the benefits of hiring a React Native developer?
There are a number of benefits to hiring a React Native developer for your business as outlined below:
Cost-Efficiency
Its cross-platform development capability enables those in React Native development to build a single app for both Android and iOS platforms without the need to hire two separate teams, offering both cost and time savings for your business. With the availability of a large number of third-party plugins, React Native eliminates the cost of needing to build an app from scratch. In addition, a large amount of its code is reusable resulting in further development cost savings for your business.
High Performance
While offering the look and feel of native apps, by combining native components with its own JavaScript library, React Native is able to build fast-rendering and responsive app interfaces that deliver high-level, native-like performance across both Android and iOs platforms without any obstacles.
Large Community
Its community-driven approach makes it easier for developers to find the expert support they need. Its open-source platform means that a developer who is faced with a problem at any stage in the development process can turn to other community members for help, training materials, or advice on tools, allowing for a swift resolution to any issues that may occur.
Faster Development
As a cross-platform app development framework, React Native makes it quicker for developers to build user-friendly apps for both Android and iOS compared to other methods, resulting in reduced development times. This is further supported by the single codebase which allows for large amounts of code to be reused allowing for a faster time-to-market for your business.
Flexibility
Its flexible architecture makes it easier for Native React developers to continue building the platform once the previous developer has left. It is also possible to allow other developers and engineers to make updates and edits in the same application, all of which offer your business greater time and cost savings.
Live Reload
Its hot reloading ability lets React Native developers make changes in the code which are automatically reflected while the app is still running. The ability to see their changes in real-time allows developers to make the best decisions by taking into account live feedback. A live reload function that does not affect the state of the application allows customers to enjoy the benefit of the app without interruption, thus being better for business.
How to hire a React Native developer – 3 Steps
Whether you are looking to recruit in-house developers, freelancers or remote workers we set out some steps below that can help you navigate the process of hiring a React Native developer for your business. Note, for any business that needs support in this process, there are companies providing technology modernization services can assist businesses in transitioning from legacy systems to more efficient React Native-based mobile application
Outline the project requirements
To attract the right candidate, ensure your job specification is as detailed and specific as possible by focusing on the following areas:
- Create a User Flow – Before beginning a React Native development project you must be able to convey the central purpose of the mobile app to the developer through a user flow. This will allow them to assess its scope and identify any potential challenges which may arise during the project.
- Create GUI Design – A Graphical User Interface (GUI) allows a developer to better understand the visual representation of your data and the rationale behind it. It also sheds light on any potential risks or problems as well as facilitating more accurate time and cost projection.
- API Documentation – A developer must have an outline of the technical requirements of the project before they can begin work on the back end of the mobile app.
Technical requirements
A React Native candidate must possess strong technical skills in the following areas:
- Good knowledge of JavaScript, ES6 and React Native
- An understanding of native iOS and Android development
- Familiarity with Redux
- App navigation skills
- Debugging and testing skills
- The ability to write, clear, consistent and error-free code
You may need to test for additional technical skills based on the experience level of the developer you require and the type of mobile app that your business is looking to develop.
Soft Skills
Along with strong technical ability, good communication and teamwork are some of the soft skills a React Native developer should possess. Whether it’s cross-functional collaboration, speaking in client meetings, or guiding other members of their team, hiring a React Native developer who will fit in well within your organization is key.
The following interview questions can help you gauge a prospective candidate’s abilities in this area:
- What challenges did you successfully overcome in previous development projects?
- Have you had to manage a team through a difficult situation? What lessons did you learn?
- What is your approach when working on something you have not been tasked with before?
- How do you manage competing work priorities?
- Describe a situation when you had to explain a complex technical problem at work to someone who was not familiar with the jargon. How did you ensure you were successfully understood?
This three-step roadmap can help you to streamline the process of shortlisting candidates, helping you find the best one for your business needs.
Challenges in React Native Development and How to Overcome Them
Despite its numerous advantages, React Native development comes with its own set of challenges. One common issue is the integration of native modules, which may require developers to write additional native code for iOS and Android. This can be mitigated by hiring developers with strong native development skills. Another challenge is performance optimization, particularly for complex animations and heavy computations. To overcome this, developers can leverage libraries such as Reanimated and Hermes to enhance performance. Additionally, keeping up with frequent updates and changes in the React Native ecosystem requires continuous learning and adaptation. Engaging with the active React Native community and utilizing resources like GitHub and Stack Overflow can provide valuable support and solutions. By addressing these challenges proactively, businesses can fully leverage the potential of React Native for efficient and high-quality mobile app development.
Conclusion
As a leading Employer of Record, Horizons can help your company hire the best talent worldwide. If you are looking to diversify your workforce to include React Native developers to complement your existing team, we are here to support your business. Please feel free to contact us to find out more.
Frequently asked questions
Mobile app development requires a significant time and skill investment. A React Native developer can create native-like, user-friendly iOS and Android apps for your business in a cost-effective manner. Its single codebase means code only needs to be created once across both iOS and Android applications, saving your company time and money. In addition to this, mobile apps built by a React Native developer will be easy to maintain, develop, update, and support.
