React is the most popular JavaScript library that has gained massive adoption for front-end development. While primarily known for its use in building user-facing web applications, it's also an adequate choice for building internal tools for companies. Let's explore the pros and cons of using React for internal tools development, so you'll be able to determine if it's the right choice for your organization.

Pros of Using React for Internal Tools

Reusability

Built with a focus on reusability, React makes it easy for developers to reuse code across different projects. This is particularly useful for internal tools development, where companies often need to build multiple similar tools for different departments or teams. Reusing code saves time and reduces the cost of development, making it a more cost-effective solution for organizations.

Community

React has a large and active community of developers who continuously contribute to the library and its ecosystem. This means that there is a wealth of resources available, including libraries, tutorials, and forums, to help developers get the most out of React. The community also provides a support network for developers, making it easier for them to resolve any issues that arise.

Flexibility

React is flexible and can be used with JavaScript and TypeScript. This allows organizations to choose the language that best suits their needs, giving them the freedom to build their tools in the way that works best for them and their practices - whether they use a weakly-typed or strongly-typed language.

Cons of Using React for Internal Tools

Usable by Engineers

React required some knowledge in JS/TS and is not the easiest library to learn. It can take some time for developers to get up to speed with it. This can be a disadvantage for organizations with limited internal/development resources, as they may need to invest in additional engineers and training to get the most out of React.

Lack of Built-In Tools

While React provides a framework for building internal tools, it does not include many of the built-in tools and features that are commonly required for internal tool development. For example, it does not include an out-of-the-box form builder, which can make it more challenging for organizations to build tools that meet their specific requirements.

Maintenance and Upkeep

React requires ongoing maintenance and upkeep to ensure that it remains up-to-date and secure. This can be a challenge for organizations with limited internal resources, as it requires a dedicated team of developers to manage it, and cannot be changed by the employees who use those tools generally.

In conclusion, although React is a popular choice for internal tools development, its steep learning curve, lack of built-in tools, and ongoing maintenance requirements mean that it's not the best choice for many organizations. Before making a decision, it's important to carefully consider your organization's specific needs and resources. If you have abundance of internal technical personnel and resources, React can be an excellent choice for building high-quality, efficient internal tools. However, if your organization lacks the necessary expertise, wants to cut costs or decrease time to deployment, it may be more cost-effective to outsource the development of your internal tools to a third-party provider. Regardless of your choice, it's important to choose a solution that best fits your organization's needs and budget.