Building a website with over 100,000 pages that are initially blank HTML and rely on JavaScript to dynamically populate content is an interesting design choice, and whether it is genius or moronic depends on the context and specific use case. Here’s a breakdown to consider:
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Implications:
Traditional search engines like Google have become better at indexing JavaScript-rendered content, but it’s not foolproof. Relying solely on JavaScript for content rendering can still pose challenges for SEO. Important content might not get indexed properly, affecting visibility.
Performance Considerations:
Having a large number of blank pages could optimize server storage and reduce infrastructure strain in terms of static content hosting. However, client-side rendering can increase initial page load times as the browser has to fetch data and render the page dynamically, potentially leading to a poor user experience if not handled asynchronously or via lazy loading.
User Experience:
If well-implemented with efficient data fetching and rendering techniques, such as using service workers or caching strategies, this approach could offer a seamless user experience. Conversely, if poorly executed, users might face slower load times and increased latency.
Flexibility and Maintainability:
This approach allows for high modularity and consistent page design, as changes to the template or data fetching logic propagate across all pages. However, debugging and troubleshooting might become complex, as issues in the JavaScript logic could affect a large number of pages.
Use Case Suitability:
For applications that require real-time data updates or frequently changing content (like dashboards or real-time analytics panels), this approach offers significant advantages in terms of data freshness and reduced need for page reloads.
Technological Demands:
The solution demands robust front-end development architecture with frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue, which natively support dynamic rendering but also require advanced optimization techniques to handle large-scale deployments efficiently.

Overall, labeling the approach as genius or moronic is entirely dependent on how well it aligns with the website’s goals, audience needs, and the implementation skills of the developers. Proper planning and execution can harness its benefits, while neglect can amplify its downsides.