Top Reasons To Use Grunt - A Leading JavaScript Task Runner

Though web development has evolved into one of the most promising fields of career, the majority of mundane work associated with the same has often refrained students from choosing the same. Fortunately, we can rely on a good task runner which can automate the tasks(for eg: compilation, liniting, minification, unit testing etc.) which need to be performed on a repetitive basis. So, if you're a JavaScript developer who's in a fuss about the effective execution of multiple tasks which need to be performed repetitively, then using the popular Javascript task runner called Grunt can work for you. Keep on reading the paragraphs that follow in this post to get a bigger picture of Grunt and reasons behind using the same as an individual and/or a team.

What's Grunt exactly? 
The ever-growing Grunt ecosystem is loaded with hundreds of plugins that allow you to automate anything with a marginal amount of effort. As a renowned JavaScript task runner and automator, Grunt has laid down the path to make the life of every JavaScript developer simple and easy. It is interesting to know that most of the tasks you need to perform continuously as part of Javascript projects is available in the form of Grunt plugins. Some of the well recognized Grunt plugins include: CoffeeScript, JS Hint, Sass, Handlebars and many more.

Grunt and Grunt plugins are both, installed and managed via npm-the Node.js package manger. Also, the Grunt version 0.4x requires Node.js stable versions>=0.8.0.

Now, coming to the reasons why you should be using Grunt task runner right away

1. Flawless JavaScript testing
As a modern cum conventional process, JavaScript testing has become a breeze with the introduction of Grunt plugins. You can now use these plugins for testing multiple frameworks(for eg: Jasmine) which will further allow you to establish tests for the JS Code. You can run the code tests for receiving a pass/fail action in addition to several notifications in your browser. JavaScript testing using Grunt allows you to test all your functions with multiple cases. Plus, you can also receive a detailed report on the pass or fail status of the tests.

2. File Compression and Concatenation
Separation of concerns during JavaScript development is perhaps one of the most important things that need to be kept in mind. With the immense need for distinguishing functionality within a web product, it is imperative to organize all your files in the best possible format. There are chances that these files would be expanded, spaced, commented and indented for enhancing the overall productivity. It is here that file compression and concatenation plays a pivotal role. It not only boosts the project's performance but also reduces the HTTP requests, making the website load faster and work smoothly. Grunt comes with a wide array of plugins that can be easily used for compression of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Also, you can use the file concatenation plugins to make your site robust.

3. Code Linting
Code Linting is referred to as the process of running a program which analyzes your code for potential bugs. With Grunt, you can easily link JS and CSS files via the Grunt plugins available for the same. In JavaScript, using Grunt will allow you to notice and get rid of oft-ambiguous errors in your console. Additionally, you are also being suggested practices that will help you in detecting careless mistakes such as missing semicolons, poor spacing etc.

4. CSS Postprocessing
Quite similar to the multiple advantages associated with CSS pre-processing, even CSS post-processing has gained momentum among web developers. As per post-processing, once the CSS has been saved or compiled, you can choose to run it using several post-processors which can handle all the monotonous work for you. Autoprefixer is a leading post-processor which is updated regularly, parses CSS and can be used for adding prefixes to CSS rules. Whether it's the flexbox syntax or the animations, Grunt is capable of handling everything perfectly.

5. Bug-free task automation
Speak of a task in JavaScript development and Grunt will be abl to automate it for you. Just install Grunt and watch your projects as tasks are being automated in an error-free way. For instance, if you're expecting some new bugs via the Jasmine framework test, go ahead with making changed to your files and Grunt will be keeping a good track of everything that is being done. Finally, you'll be able to view revised test results.

Conclusion
Implementing Grunt in your web project is a decision that will help you in scaling new heights of success. Hope after taking a walk through the aforementioned reasons supporting the use of Grunt, you'll be all excited to try the JavaScript task runner for your ongoing/upcoming project.

Author Biography:
Jack Calder is a known specialist in well renowned design firm Markupcloud Ltd – a PSD to HTML service company with effective principles. Jack has shared plenty of knowledge on the web with others and still sharing his in-depth hard work and information with others.