Mobile Backend as a Service: the pros and cons of parse

Abstract

Using a pre-built backend for an application is an affordable and swift approach to prototyping new application ideas. Mobile Backend as a Service (MBaaS) is the term for pre-built backend systems that developers can use. However, it is advisable to understand the pros and the cons of an MBaaS before deciding to use it. The aim of the thesis was to determine the advantages and disadvantages of using Parse, a provider of mobile backend as a service, in application development. Parse’s definition and other studies about the topic are also discussed. The theoretical part of this study is based mostly on digital resources and articles related to the topic. On the other hand, the data was empirically collected from project management tool logs of a web application development and interviews with developers who have different amounts of experience in programming. The conclusion was then derived from data analysis and data comparison between the literary and empirical findings. The conclusion indicates that the advantages of Parse in application development appear to be: cost and time saving; simplicity in implementation; rapidity in learning; rich features in addition to backend tasks; solid data management tools, APIs and SDKs; user experience oriented development. Despite the good characteristics, the disadvantages are limitations in custom backend function and dependencies on the service. However, because of the scope of the case company, the findings are suitable for companies or individuals that develop prototypes or applications for a small group of people. Keywords: Parse, mobile backend as a service