Using web2py Python framework for creating data-driven web applications in the academic library

Abstract

Purpose – Many libraries have a need to develop their own data-driven web applications, but their technical staff often lacks the required specialized training – which includes knowledge of SQL, a web application language like PHP, JavaScript, CSS, and jQuery. The web2py framework greatly reduces the learning curve for creating data-driven websites by focussing on three main goals: ease of use; rapid development; and security. web2py follows a strict MVC framework where the controls and web templates are all written in pure Python. No additional templating language is required. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – There are many frameworks available for creating database-driven web applications. The author had used ColdFusion for many years but wanted to move to a more complete web framework which was also open source. Findings – After evaluating a number of Python frameworks, web2py was found to provide the best combination of functionality and ease of use. This paper focusses on the strengths of web2py and not the specifics of evaluating the different frameworks. Practical implications – Librarians who feel that they do not have the skills to create data-driven websites in other frameworks might find that they can develop them in web2py. It is a good web application framework to start with, which might also provide a gateway to other frameworks. Originality/value – web2py is an open source framework that could have great benefit for those who may have struggled to create database-driven websites in other frameworks or languages.