Navigating Tech Stack Choices: Struggling with Continuity and Progress in SaaS Development
Building a SaaS product can often feel like a complex journey, especially when your familiarity with specific technologies clashes with your desire to innovate or simplify your workflow. Many developers face a similar dilemma: sticking with what they know versus exploring new tools that might offer more flexibility or efficiency.
Recently, I’ve found myself caught in this ongoing cycle of tech stack experimentation. My initial setup involved Angular and Java with Spring Boot, coupled with Amazon Cognito for authentication. While these technologies are well-known and comfortable, the combination often feels bogged down by boilerplate code, making progress feel slow—like trying to move through molasses.
Eager to explore alternatives, I experimented with SolidJS and Django paired with SuperTokens. The experience was initially exciting—quickly crafting components and enjoying a sense of freedom. However, this unfamiliarity brought its own challenges. The lack of structure meant I constantly worried about potential issues, and I wasn’t fully confident that I could maintain or scale the project effectively.
Ultimately, I decided to return to my original stack—Angular, Java, and Amazon Cognito—for consistency and reliability. Yet, the process still feels sluggish. Comparing myself to others who seemingly launch SaaS products within a month, I can’t help but wonder why it’s taking me so long. Additionally, frequent updates and changes in Angular and Cognito add another layer of complexity, making me hesitant to keep up with every new release.
All I really want is a straightforward authentication flow that’s easy to manage, combined with a stable, familiar codebase. Maybe, at this point, sticking with a particular framework version—perhaps a more stable release—would help restore focus and momentum. I have a strong affinity for Java, and perhaps that’s where my energy should be directed.
If you’re in a similar boat, grappling with tech stack decisions and feeling overwhelmed by constant updates, remember: consistency and simplicity often lead to the most sustainable progress. Sometimes, it’s better to master a familiar set of tools than to chase every promising new technology on the horizon.
Summary:
Choosing the right technology stack is a personal journey that impacts your productivity and confidence. While experimenting can be valuable, maintaining a stable, manageable environment might ultimately be the key to faster, more efficient SaaS development.
