Deploying applications can be challenging, especially when global scalability and infrastructure management come into play. Globe by Invertase simplifies this process for Dart and Flutter developers, offering a seamless deployment platform tailored for modern development needs. This article explores Globe, its features, and provides insights into how developers can maximise its potential.

What is Globe?

Globe is a deployment platform designed specifically for Dart and Flutter applications. It allows developers to deploy backend and frontend applications without worrying about server management, load balancing, or scaling. By leveraging a globally distributed network, Globe ensures minimal latency and high availability.

Key Features:

1. Zero-Configuration Deployments: Deploy your application with a single command.

2. Preview and Production Environments: Test changes in preview environments before going live.

3. Seamless CI/CD Integration: Automate deployments from your GitHub repository.

4. Global Scalability: Applications are distributed across a global edge network for optimal performance.

5. Advanced Caching: Flutter web applications benefit from smart caching for faster load times.

6. Built-in Monitoring and Analytics: Gain insights into your application’s performance with detailed logs and analytics.

Getting Started with Globe

1. Install the Globe CLI

To begin, install the Globe CLI, a command-line tool that facilitates deployment:

dart pub global activate globe_cli

2. Log in to Globe

Authenticate using the globe login command:

globe login

This command opens a browser window where you can log in to your Globe account.

3. Deploy Your Application

As at time of writing, there are two ways to deploy to globe:

Option 1: Deploy Locally with the CLI

Navigate to your project’s root directory and deploy it with a single command:

For preview deployments/environment, use the --no-prod flag:

globe deploy --no-prod

For production environments, use the --prod flag:

globe deploy --prod

Deployments made with the globe cli, either preview or production deployment are available on the globe dashboard.

Option 2: Deploy Using the GitHub Integration

Globe integrates seamlessly with GitHub, enabling deployments directly from your repository. Follow these steps:

• Push your code to a branch in your GitHub repository.

• Log in to the Globe dashboard.

• Connect your GitHub account to dart globe.

• Select the repository you want to deploy from.

• Configure your project: Set project name, project directory and branch

• Configure your project: Set entry point and build command

Globe automatically detect what framework your application is built with and applies a framework preset. Supported framework presets are: Dart frog, Shelf, Serverpod mini and Shelf.

You could also go with no preset. Ensure to build your project and set the right entrypoint.

Globe framework preset

• Configure your project: Set build configurations and deploy

This method is great for team workflows, where deployments need to be managed centrally with visibility across multiple contributors. Also, the GitHub integration comes with automatic deployment triggers.

Strengths and Areas for Improvement in Globe

Globe is an excellent tool that excels in simplifying deployments for Dart and Flutter developers. Its user-friendly CLI, robust GitHub integration, and global scalability make it a standout platform. However, as with any tool, there are areas where it can be further improved to enhance the developer experience.

1. Usability

   Positive: The CLI’s simplicity makes deployment effortless for both beginners and experienced developers.
   Improvement: The CLI could take certain configurations as arguments to enable developers integrate it in their custom ci/cd pipelines

2. Features

   Positive: The GitHub integration provides a streamlined way to manage deployments for collaborative projects.
   Improvement: Globe could provide integration for other version control system like Bitbucket and Gitlab.

3. Developer Experience

   Positive: Onboarding is seamless with a straightforward globe login process and minimal setup requirements.
   Improvement: Introduce interactive tutorials or guides within the dashboard for first-time users.

Why Choose Globe?

Globe removes the complexity of deployment, allowing developers to focus on building great applications. Its robust features and dual deployment options — via CLI or GitHub integration — make it a valuable asset for any Dart or Flutter developer looking to scale globally with ease.

Globe by Invertase is a powerful deployment solution that simplifies the lives of Dart and Flutter developers. With features like zero-configuration deployments, preview environments, and flexible deployment options, Globe empowers developers to build and deploy with confidence.

For more information, visit the Globe Documentation.

Happy coding and deploying!