Next.js as a framework for Drupal: uses and advantages

Why opt for a Next.js Drupal association?

Using Next.js for Drupal front-end development? Though this idea may seem strange, many web developers are campaigning for the use of this open source framework. For what reasons exactly? Simply because it includes all the tools needed to create a next-gen front-end for any Drupal site. Good news when you know that the future of Drupal is “headless”.

What is the use of Next.js in web development?

Next.js is an open source React framework used for developing single-page Javascript applications.

Much appreciated, it combines the advantages, both for developers and for customers. Indeed, Next.js:

• Contains built-in CSS support that allows developers to import CSS files from a JavaScript file;
• Has a built-in automatic image optimization feature, so it can automatically optimize images using the image component;
• Increases flexibility for developers to update existing pages by putting them back in the background and in parallel with incoming traffic.

 

Why choose Drupal as a Content Management System ?

For 20 years, Drupal has been one of the most used and loved content management systems (CMS). This durability is not due to chance, but to performance that is always above average:

• A capacity that is constantly increasing throughout its existence;
• A solid and reliable web experience management system;
• Allows to personalize user experiences, because they are customer-centric;
• Highly extensible via APIs;
• Seamless integration with popular marketing tools;
• Is a state-of-the-art metadata and targeting SEO tool.

 

So why do we say that Drupal has lost its head? The term “headless” actually refers to software capable of running on a device without necessarily being equipped with a graphical user interface (GUI).

As for the concept of Drupal Headless, this means that Drupal serves as a backend while the frontend, built, for example, with Next.js, communicates transparently for content publishers, with the CMS through an API.

Why opt for a Next.js Drupal association?

In summary, Next.js for Drupal is to replace the Drupal front-end with the open source framework without having to modify the main editing features of the CMS.

The advantages of combining these two technologies:

• Content changes are instantly supported, with no latency thanks to incremental static refresh;
• Ability to switch the site to get multiple preview modes, including iframe preview;
• Ability to publish content on multiple sites;
• Preview mode for revisions, drafts and content moderation;
• Adaptation of content into other languages;
• Possibility to customize the overview of site and solutions.

 

Next.js Drupal: a leap forward with the expertise of Esokia!

A Drupal agency for more than 12 years, since the Drupal 5 version, Esokia has developed a broad expertise and range of services on the Drupal Content Management System / CMS, including the transition from the front-end to Next.js. We're also happy to have Acquia Certified Developers on our team!

These two elements are essential for a successful IT development project, carried out from start to finish in transparency and above all by being respectful of your specifications.

If you are looking for a web development agency specializing in the combination of Next.js and Drupal, if you want to fully exploit the power of your CMS thanks to a next-generation front-end, contact us to discuss your project !

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