Building a simple todo app in Bubble using Xano as the backend

Hello, Bubblers and Xano users! Today, we're diving into an exciting tutorial where we'll explore how to use Bubble as a frontend platform while leveraging Xano for backend management. This walkthrough is designed to clarify the distinctions between frontend and backend development and demonstrate the process of building a simple to-do application with user sign-in functionality.

The Concept:

The backend of an application handles the business logic, data storage, and server infrastructure. In contrast, the frontend is what users interact with. In our case, Xano will power the backend with its scalable database and API builder, while Bubble will manage the user interface and experience.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Setting Up Your Workspace in Xano: Begin by creating a new workspace in Xano. Define your database tables such as users, merchants, and to-dos. Xano will automatically generate CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) API endpoints for these tables.

Integrating Xano with Bubble: In Bubble, instead of utilizing its own database, we'll connect to Xano's API. This means the 'Data' tab in Bubble will mostly be unused, and instead, you'll use Bubble to design the UI and set up workflows that interact with Xano's backend.

Creating Your User Interface in Bubble: Develop your UI elements such as sign-in and sign-up forms, to-do lists, and user profiles. Use Bubble's workflow system to handle user actions like logging in, signing up, and submitting to-dos.

Connecting Bubble to Xano: Utilize the API Connector and Xano Connector plugins in Bubble to establish a link between your Bubble frontend and Xano backend. Configure your API calls to fetch, create, and delete data stored in Xano.

Managing User Authentication: Set up user authentication in Xano and connect it with Bubble. Implement sign-up and login forms in Bubble that interact with Xano's authentication APIs, ensuring secure user sessions.

Building To-Do List Functionality: Create workflows in Bubble that allow users to add, view, and delete to-dos. These actions will be reflected in the Xano database, demonstrating real-time data syncing between Bubble and Xano.

Practical Tips:

• Understand the role of each platform: Use Bubble for what it's best at – creating and managing the frontend, and use Xano for robust backend functionalities.
• Keep your API keys and sensitive information secure when connecting both platforms.
• Test your workflows and API calls thoroughly to ensure data integrity and user experience.

Conclusion:

By combining Bubble's frontend capabilities with Xano's backend prowess, you can build powerful, scalable applications without deep coding knowledge. This approach not only enhances your app's functionality but also streamlines development processes.