PHP – Making Use of an MVC Framework

PHP is one of the most popular programming languages used today, and it will most likely continue to gain popularity.  Compared to other programming languages, it is easy to learn, but can be used to create large web applications.  Using a framework as a platform within PHP helps you create web applications quicker by reducing coding.  A framework provides structure for your page, and it creates a connection between your database and the application.

The framework used when coding with PHP is the Model-View-Controller (MVC) Framework.  MVC separates your database from the user interface within the application.  This lets you modify your database and user interface independently of each other which makes it easier to change or update your web application.

Using MVC in PHP

Since MVC is a simple system, it makes sense to apply it to complex PHP applications.  Use MVC as a frame to build upon with PHP for your website.  MVC also makes it easy to maintain different elements of your website because the three components are separate.  This reduces coding time and makes it easier to update your website.

What is Model-View-Controller?

Developed in 1979, it was originally used to develop software, but is now also used in web development.  It is used for applications that need more than one view of data.  It separates objects into three categories: models, views and controllers.  Models are used for maintaining data, views display the data, and controllers handle events from both models or views.  This allows for each part to be developed and maintained separately.

Model – This is the part of the system that is responsible for data from the application.  Data is taken from a database or other location.

View – This is what the user sees, such as the website or the graphical interface of a program.  There are many different ways data can be interpreted and presented from the model to the viewer.

Controller – This is the part of the system that manages input from the person viewing the web page or using the program.  It gives direction to both the model and the view.

MVC Frameworks For PHP

Different frameworks exist for different needs.  The framework you choose for a specific project depends on your skill level and the type of web application you are creating.  No matter which framework you chose, they will all help you save time by reducing coding.  Here are three open-source frameworks you can use to build your applications:

CodeIgniter (CI)

CodeIgniter is a simple PHP framework made for web developers who want to create feature-rich web applications.  It is great for shared hosting accounts and developers needing to write a lot of code in a short time.

CakePHP

This was designed for web developers from beginner to advanced.  It reduces development time and costs by letting web developers write less code for websites.  It uses many of the same ideas as the framework for the Ruby programming language.

Symfony

This is a framework used for web applications.  It helps you save time developing your website by reducing repetitive code.  Additionally, it lets you build and maintain your website, and comes with free applications and support to help you with the process.

About Author :

Brian Flores is regular writer for InMotion Hosting, a Los Angeles web hosting company.  You can follow him on Twitter @BrianAFlores

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