Update:
November 2019 – This article has been updated as jQuery is now considered old technology compared to other latest developments in Javascript. I would be remissed not to point out that there are better and newer front-end technologies such as Angular, ReactJS, Vue, etc. In fact, I have asked my team to create Mobiecom as an alternative for the Aurora storefront. It would be beneficial to seriously consider Mobiecom because it addresses many technical problems that our customers have. First, it’s built-in ReactJS (so it’s all javascript, making it easier to find developers) as a SPA (a Single Page Application beats a Multi-Page Application hands down to achieve speed in site navigation), and it uses all REST API calls to communicate to the Commerce server (allowing the store to be independent of the back-end). Click here to find out about a modern alternative to Aurora. Click here to see how fast my site runs on Mobiecom.
The All-New jQuery Aurora starter store opens up many new possibilities for customizing the user experience in many ways that will improve your site’s conversion rate.
Removing the Dojo Challenges!
Aurora is now a viable option for many who have been holding off on upgrading to the latest from IBM due to past difficulties dealing with Dojo and the UI in general. You can find more UI developers to maintain and develop customizations for your store. Plus, adding 3rd party plug-ins will be just a cinch since it is much easier.
Increase Conversion Rate by being Truly Responsive!
Aurora is now completely responsive, which means those who have not had any mobile experience for their storefront can quickly start realizing increased sales from mobile devices by upgrading.
Leverage the jQuery Ecosystem for a Rich UI Experience!
Having the UI based on jQuery also means the vast ecosystem built up around it will be available too – everything from custom menus with carousels built-in, to size chart pop-ups, to zoomable product viewers, and much much more!
Our Practical Advice – There is a Silver Lining!
If all of the above sounds exciting to you, your mind is probably racing to come up with a plan on how to leverage this new capability. Do you have an OOTB site based on Aurora? Would it be a piece-meal or complete overhaul? The difference in UX between your existing site and the jQuery Aurora store would be jarring and unpleasant if rolling out section by section, leading to lost sales. You should do a complete migration and roll-out. The good news is that the new jQuery Starter Store is better than ever and lowers the level of effort required.
