Benefits and Challenges of Isomorphism in Single-page Applications: Case Study and Review of Gray Literature

Abstract

An isomorphic web application shares code between the server and the client by cleverly combining suitable parts of server-rendered applications and single-page applications. In this article, we study the benefits and challenges of isomorphism in single-page applications in terms of a gray literature review and a case study. The case study was conducted as a developer interview, where developers familiar with isomorphic web applications were interviewed. The results of both studies are then compared and the key findings are compared together. The results show that isomorphism in single-page applications brings benefits to both the developers and the end-users. Isomorphism in single-page applications is challenging to implement and has some downsides, but they mostly affect developers. Implementing isomorphism enables sharing code between the server and the client, but it increases the complexity of the application. Framework and library compatibility are issues that must be addressed by the developers.