DEV GLOSSARY

A set of rules that allows software programs to communicate with each other

Like a waiter taking your order from the frontend to the backend and bringing the result back

Used when clients request things like 'Can the contact form send to my CRM?'

Connects frontend to backend systems like WordPress or databases

The server-side part of a web application that processes data, runs logic, and communicates with databases

The behind-the-scenes engine that makes the site work

Clients don't see it directly, but they use tools (like WordPress) powered by it

Powers features like content management, authentication, and integrations

Software that allows users to manage digital content without needing to code

A website editor that lets you change text, images, and more

Often where clients do most of their post-launch work

Makes it easier for clients or content teams to manage content

A reusable piece of frontend UI code (e.g., a button or a card)

Like a Lego block that can be reused throughout the site

If clients want the same hero section as the homepage, it's reused as a component

Encourages consistency and speeds up development

The part of the website or application that users interact with directly, typically built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

It's the “face” of the website—what people see and click on

This is what the client usually reviews, gives feedback on, and signs off

Determines the user experience and design implementation

Development that covers both frontend and backend components

Like having someone who can design the storefront and build the warehouse

It helps clients get a more cohesive, end-to-end product

Fullstack developers can work across the entire system, improving efficiency

A content management system that stores and manages content separately from the frontend

A client-friendly editor/dashboard for updating website content

Clients often use it daily to update pages, blog posts, etc

Enables non-developers to manage content without needing to touch code

A React-based frontend framework for building server-rendered or statically generated websites

A powerful toolkit developers use to build fast, modern websites

Impacts how fast the site loads and how well it ranks on Google

Offers speed, SEO benefits, and flexibility for custom frontend experiences

The mapping between URLs and content/components shown on a page

The GPS system that determines what shows up when someone goes to a page

Related to how the site is structured (e.g., homepage, /about, /contact)

Enables developers to organize site structure and navigation

The part of a URL that identifies a page (e.g., /about-us)

The name at the end of a link

Clients often write or request custom slugs for clarity or SEO

Slugs impact URLs and SEO