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General Discussion

Frameworks - why customize?

I just finished the Bootstrap framework stage. I've worked through the examples, but I haven't actually created anything myself, so that will give you an idea of my inexperience. I have a question about best practices. Why would you need to download a customized version of bootstrap? Isn't it just as easy to modify it via css? Is it just that using a framework for all of your design is a bit like 'cheating'?

3 Answers

Hi Cheryl,

The reason you would download a customized version of bootstrap is because you likely don't need all those features and less features means smaller files or faster website/app. Using a framework isn't cheating anymore than using jQuery would be. it's just a way to get started quicker with styles, organization and browser/mobile testing (not exactly fun) done already.

James Barnett
James Barnett
39,199 Points

> Is it just that using a framework for all of your design is a bit like 'cheating'?

I wouldn't call it cheating, it's the difference between getting a pair of pants that are tailored to you personally and buying a pair of pants off the rack at Wallmart.

Templates and frameworks that are opinionate about design aren't handcrafted, it really comes down to a philosophical question about the theory of value.

Thanks for your responses, guys. That definitely clears it up.