Hey everyone! I'm relatively new to frontend development and currently working with a Microfrontend (MFE) architecture based on single-spa at my job. I've noticed that the libraries we're using seem to be getting replaced by newer tools like Babel and Webpack. I've been thinking about updating these libraries, but it feels like some of the modern options like Remix and Next.js aren't really designed for MFEs. Is it just a matter of maturity with these new libraries, or is there a broader trend suggesting that the whole MFE concept might be on its way out?
4 Answers
MFEs shine when you have multiple teams collaborating on the same application or suite of apps. For smaller projects or teams, though, it might actually complicate things rather than help. I've seen teams revert from MFEs because they were never the right fit to begin with. Sometimes they end up becoming a buzzword without delivering real value.
MFEs are not being phased out, but they're only useful in specific contexts. They're often adopted during phases that don't necessarily need them, which is where the confusion arises. Frameworks like Next.js aren't replacing MFEs; they just serve different purposes. The focus should be on whether you actually need an MFE setup or if a simpler architecture would work better for your project.
Right! Next.js and Remix are meant more for full-stack applications and may not fit the MFE mold well. It's all about choosing the right tools for your needs.
There's definitely a context where MFEs make sense, especially for larger applications sharing functionalities across teams. But if you're not sure why you're using one, it might be best to simplify your frontend architecture to avoid unnecessary complexity.
Got it! It's good to know that MFEs aren't going away but they should be used wisely!
In my experience, MFEs have become more of a niche solution tailored for specific scenarios. Many organizations realized that they were overengineered solutions for their needs. Hence, plenty of teams have moved back towards simpler architectures that are easier to manage without sacrificing performance.
Exactly! Every trend has its time, and now it's coming back to more straightforward solutions.
Absolutely! I worked in a big company where each team handled their own part, and switching to MFEs was a game changer. Before that, any issue could block the release for everyone. Now, each team can deploy independently, which has been so much smoother.