Skeet: Towards a Lightweight Serverless Framework Supporting Modern AI-Driven App Development (2405.06164v1)

Abstract: The field of web and mobile software frameworks is relatively mature, with a large variety of tools in different languages that facilitate traditional app development where data in a relational database is displayed and modified. Our position is that many current frameworks became popular during single server deployment of MVC architecture apps, and do not facilitate modern aspects of app development such as cloud computing and the incorporation of emerging technologies such as AI. We present a novel framework which accomplishes these purposes, Skeet, which was recently released to general use, alongside an initial evaluation. Skeet provides an app structure that reflects current trends in architecture, and tool suites that allow developers with minimal knowledge of AI internals to easily incorporate such technologies into their apps and deploy them.

• The paper introduces Skeet as a novel serverless framework that simplifies AI integration by abstracting complex cloud infrastructure management.
• It employs Domain-Driven Design and TypeScript to foster modular development and enhanced collaboration among developer teams.
• The framework supports rapid deployment and integrates with popular AI platforms like ChatGPT and Vertex AI for scalable app development.

Introduction to Skeet: A Serverless Framework for AI-Driven App Development

What is Skeet?

Skeet is a novel, Typescript-based serverless framework designed to facilitate the development of modern, AI-driven applications. The framework stands out by providing a streamlined approach to integrating AI functionalities, such as chatbots, within web and mobile apps without requiring developers to delve deeply into the complexities of AI model management and cloud infrastructure setup.

Key Features of Skeet

Skeet introduces several compelling features targeted at enhancing productivity and reducing the technical load on developers:

• Serverless Architecture: Skeet leverages a serverless model that abstracts away the underlying infrastructure, allowing developers to focus more on application logic rather than server management. This approach also facilitates scalability and cost-efficiency as resources are utilized and billed based on demand.
• Built-in AI Integration: Through a simple Command Line Interface (CLI), Skeet allows developers to incorporate AI functionalities by connecting to popular AI platforms like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Vertex AI. Developers can do this without possessing in-depth knowledge of machine learning or AI.
• Domain-Driven Design: Inspired by Domain-Driven Design principles, the framework encourages the division of applications into discrete domains. This modular approach helps in managing complexity and enhancing maintainability.

Benefits of Using Skeet for Modern App Development

The traditional Model-View-Controller (MVC) frameworks that dominated previous development cycles often fall short in fully supporting the emerging demands of contemporary applications, especially those requiring real-time data processing and AI integrations. Skeet addresses these gaps through:

1. Enhanced Collaboration: By using Typescript—a popular choice for both front-end and back-end development—Skeet minimizes the language barrier between different developer teams, streamlining communication and collaboration.
2. Quick Deployment: The serverless nature of Skeet, combined with tools for automatic cloud resource deployment, significantly speeds up the process from development to deployment.
3. Flexibility and Freedom: Despite offering powerful tools and integrations, Skeet remains lightweight, giving developers the autonomy to decide on the structure and tools they want to use within their projects.

The Skeet Ecosystem

Skeet’s design encompasses a rich ecosystem intended to support diverse aspects of app development:

• Back-End Structure: Skeet promotes the creation of independent, function-based architectures where business logic is neatly encapsulated in standalone units. This structure aligns with the Single Responsibility Principle, which advocate for modules handling specific, standalone tasks.
• Front-End Integration: Although primarily a back-end framework, Skeet supports popular front-end frameworks like React and React Native, ensuring that applications deliver seamless user experiences.
• Data Management: The framework offers robust options for handling data, supporting both SQL and NoSQL databases alongside integrations with data warehouses like Google’s BigQuery for extensive data analysis.

Future Outlook and Community Involvement

Skeet continues to evolve, driven by community feedback and the ongoing shifts within the tech landscape. Future enhancements may focus on expanding AI capabilities and further simplifying the complexities of cloud-based deployments. The growing community around Skeet can contribute to its development, creating a repository of custom functions and solutions that can be shared among developers.

As AI and serverless technologies become increasingly pivotal in app development, frameworks like Skeet are set to play a crucial role in defining how developers build modern applications that are both scalable and intelligent. This framework offers a promising avenue for developers looking to integrate advanced AI features into their applications efficiently, without becoming mired in the underlying technical complexities.