2025-01-01 08:00
Setting up authentication in an app with a disparate front end and back end is tricky. This tutorial proposes an innovative solution using JWT and GraphQL Read More
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Toptal Engineering Blog
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The Toptal Blog is the top hub for software engineers, designers, project managers, and entrepreneurs, featuring in-depth coverage of platforms and technologies, comprehensive tutorials by professional Toptal talent, and resources to help ambitious freelancers stay on the cutting edge.
2024-04-08 05:00
With proper instruction, LLMs can be highly effective coding assistants. This step-by-step guide shows you how to generate a call to an external API using Python and the OpenAI API Read More
2024-04-03 04:00
How can designers draw people into your product’s virtual, digital, or physical world? Take UX to a new level with these expert perspectives on immersive experience design Read More
2024-04-03 04:00
Effective use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT can help project managers boost workplace productivity. Follow this tactical guide to learn best practices, explore project use cases, and u… Read More
2024-03-21 07:00
Security engineering is a fast-moving field, and getting left behind is not an option. This ask-me-anything-style Q&A covers compliance frameworks, security checks, and the importance of… Read More
2024-03-20 04:00
Successful project management depends on having the right people working on the right tasks at the right time. Follow this real-world example and optimize resource allocation for your teams Read More
2024-03-18 22:00
Image labeling can be a tedious, time-consuming task, compounded by the sheer volume of data needed to train deep neural networks. This article breaks down large data set processing and expl… Read More
2024-03-13 07:00
UX writing should strike the right tone and be empathetic and persuasive. Create a frictionless user experience with these three best practices Read More
2024-03-13 04:00
This practical guide to building a tech startup focuses on the necessary milestones for success, including defining a problem, validating your ideas, building an MVP, and scaling your produc… Read More
2024-03-13 04:00
Connecting Monday.com with Jira can enhance efficiency, consistency, and communication. Explore the benefits and drawbacks of both native and custom approaches with this integration guide Read More
2024-03-12 04:00
From accelerating innovation to enhancing consumer connections, DTC could reshape CPG. Toptal’s Innovation & Experience Practice Lead Sara Kahlau and DTC Sales Lead Brennan Shanks… Read More
2024-03-03 23:00
Poor SaaS design can cause customers to get frustrated and flee. Follow these best practices to create a seamless software experience that users will love Read More
2024-02-27 22:00
Security professionals are not as inaccessible as the headlines claim. Toptal’s Information Security Practice Lead explains new ways to engage the professionals you need Read More
2024-02-21 05:00
Webflow can cut website design time in half—enabling designers to devote more attention to driving traffic and boosting conversions Read More
2024-02-21 05:00
REST APIs have become a critical feature of software development, so understanding the fundamentals is essential for effective product leadership. This overview of key principles helps you m… Read More
2024-02-15 06:00
Conventional profit optimization methods could cause your company to miss out on opportunities to grow. This four-step approach will help your business make the most of its strengths to boos… Read More
2024-02-12 06:00
Apache Spark is an analytics engine that can handle very large data sets. This guide reveals strategies to optimize its performance using PySpark Read More
2024-02-07 05:00
For product businesses, embracing the transformative power of AI means incorporating it in a robust, relevant, and sustainable way. Navigate the challenges of AI integration with this guide Read More
2024-01-28 23:00
Ideally, aesthetics and functionality would merge seamlessly in digital design, but that isn’t always the case. Here, we discuss when to prioritize one or the other for the optimal use… Read More
2024-01-24 06:00
Despite Agile’s popularity, Waterfall remains prevalent across industries. Rediscover one of its foundational tools, the WBS, and align your team with a common language to improve proj… Read More
2024-01-21 23:00
Next.js is best known for server-side rendering, but these innovative strategies can help developers configure web apps for more speed, reduced server load, improved SEO, and much more Read More
2024-01-19 06:00
Whether you need to fix a roadblock or test a new idea, these insights from a former Formula 1 engineer can help speed your success Read More
2024-01-10 05:00
A suite of tools can empower nontechnical users to create mobile applications without writing a line of code. Discover whether these no-code options are right for your next product Read More
2024-01-03 05:00
For startups, no-code development tools mean faster and more flexible hypothesis testing at a reduced cost. Create your first product with this guide to the no-code approach Read More
2024-01-01 08:00
Cognitive biases can skew user research, leading to design changes that don’t address your customers’ real needs. Build digital products that users will love by mitigating these… Read More
2023-12-14 05:00
Scarce funding is squeezing startup budgets, leading to smaller allocations for essential marketing functions such as web analytics, SEO, and email outreach. Discover how AI can enable compa… Read More
2023-12-13 05:00
When it comes to improving project outcomes, AI holds vast potential, but it can be difficult to know which tools to use and how to apply them effectively. This guide details what you need t… Read More
2023-12-05 05:00
Applying chatbot features to e-commerce search can increase user satisfaction while tackling the pervasive and costly problem of search abandonment. These chatbot UX best practices will help… Read More
2023-11-30 05:00
It’s time to banish the myth that internal controls are the enemy of growth. Learn how to design smart checks and balances that manage risk while positioning your company to thrive Read More
2023-11-30 05:00
Don’t let inconsistent typefaces or subpar spacing impede accessibility or hurt your brand. These mobile typography guidelines will help enhance user experience and increase engagement… Read More
2023-11-29 05:00
When organizations scale or hybridize Agile, job roles and responsibilities often stray from textbook definitions. Address role overlap and achieve alignment on your product teams with this… Read More
2023-11-08 05:00
The dynamism of AI-driven software development requires a specialized project management approach. This overview of the AI project life cycle details the key adaptations needed for success Read More
2023-11-02 04:00
Unclear expectations, stakeholder disagreements, and conflicting interests can lead to inferior products and unhappy customers. Apply design thinking concepts to your next project to boost a… Read More
2023-11-01 04:00
This AI-informed framework is designed to fast-track code reviews, enhance software quality, and foster smart, cost-effective decisions in software development Read More
2023-10-30 04:00
In this ask-me-anything-style Q&A, leading Toptal cybersecurity expert Ilia Tivin responds to colleagues’ questions on AI in cybersecurity and provides data and network protection… Read More
2023-10-25 04:00
Boost customer satisfaction and loyalty by designing a safe, consistent, and user-friendly authentication system Read More
2023-10-19 04:00
Offshoring can help a company reduce overhead and minimize fixed costs. Whether you’re looking to open an overseas branch or outsource to cross-border contractors, here’s what yo… Read More
2023-10-18 04:00
Gather, analyze, and prioritize the voice of the customer to unlock product design solutions that improve client satisfaction and boost revenue Read More
2023-10-17 04:00
Generative AI is a potent tool, but text prompting can make it hard for users to get the results they want. Four design experts share ideas for making AI prompting more intuitive and accessi… Read More
2023-10-10 04:00
Use these tips for navigation, tables and charts, button UX, and interactivity to create a smooth mobile dashboard experience that will keep users coming back Read More
2023-09-17 23:00
In today’s competitive business landscape, SaaS products are indispensable. Find out how to spearhead the introduction of these tools and navigate the intricacies of implementation Read More
2023-09-15 04:00
Generative AI advances raise new questions around data ownership, content integrity, algorithmic bias, and more. Here, three experts at the forefront of NLP present recommendations for devel… Read More
2023-09-13 04:00
Product managers often underestimate the importance of QA in software development. Embed these best practices in your team’s process to build higher-quality products and realize your v… Read More
2023-08-30 04:00
Freelance designers bring diverse skills and perspectives to projects that help clients achieve business goals without exceeding their budgets Read More
2023-08-22 04:00
Medical products with poor usability could harm patients and increase healthcare company costs. Prioritize usability, accessibility, and the patient experience to design effective devices Read More
2023-08-17 04:00
Taking on even a single API is a complex task, but it can be made easier by taking a product management approach. Optimize your API strategy with these best practices for security, design, g… Read More
2023-08-14 04:00
Hook investors with a financial model that instantly shows them what they need to know about your startup Read More
2023-08-10 04:00
Build a simple, reusable foundation for your video processing apps and alleviate the common challenges of video manipulation Read More
2023-08-02 04:00
For funder-backed startups, brick-and-mortar offices cost more than just money–they dilute founder equity Read More
2023-08-02 04:00
Requirements gathering is a crucial but often overlooked part of the development process. Steer clear of these five ineffective approaches and identify meaningful ways to improve your requir… Read More
2023-08-01 04:00
Design patterns offer a convenient way to tackle challenges with tried-and-tested solutions, saving developers time and effort. Here’s how React design patterns allow for coherent modu… Read More
2023-07-26 04:00
To impress risk-averse investors, you have to prove that you’re ready for whatever may come Read More
2023-07-26 04:00
In this wide-ranging Q&A, two Toptal designers delve into the influence of generative AI on design and its implications for creative thinking, user research, and entry-level designers Read More
2023-07-26 04:00
Adoption of product-led growth strategies is soaring, particularly among SaaS companies. This overview of three key frameworks can help you decide which one is right for your company Read More
2023-07-25 23:00
In this ask-me-anything style Q&A, leading Toptal AI developer Joao Diogo de Oliveira fields questions from fellow engineers about resources for pivoting to ML, approaches to large langu… Read More
2023-07-19 04:00
Aligned teams create a seamless customer experience. Unlock the potential of product-led growth in your organization with these six tips Read More
2023-06-21 04:00
Product teams face a dilemma: Achieving pixel-perfect design requires significant time and resources, but rushing to launch can result in mediocre products. This UI guide explains how to des… Read More
2023-06-21 04:00
Don’t let someone’s intuition overshadow data-driven decision-making. Use these strategies to manage the highest-paid person’s opinions (HiPPO) and build robust, consistent… Read More
2023-06-15 04:00
The 2022 crash shook the cryptocurrency market to its core, but investors are still buying digital coins. How does crypto work, and what does the future hold for it? Read More
2023-06-14 04:00
Designers can create safer dating app UX through robust ID verification methods, reporting tools, and design features that clarify consent Read More
2023-06-07 04:00
From auto manufacturing in the 1950s to the modern digital workplace, Kanban’s historical development holds valuable lessons for today’s distributed project teams Read More
2023-06-02 04:00
Generative AI is taking the world by storm, with potentially profound impacts on the content we create. Learn the basics of AI image generation and produce sophisticated artistic renderings… Read More
2023-05-31 04:00
Product managers can be invaluable partners for CEOs and other executive leaders during times of organizational change. By negotiating with stakeholders at all levels, the product manager ca… Read More
2023-05-24 04:00
Risk is inherent in innovation, but you can take steps to keep it in check. This framework helps ensure that new products are aligned with business goals, customer needs, and available resou… Read More
2023-05-22 04:00
Want to expand your skills amid the current surge of revolutionary language models like GPT-4? In this ask-me-anything-style tutorial, Toptal data scientist and AI engineer Daniel Pér… Read More
2023-05-17 04:00
Seasoned design experts offer insights into the latest UI trends—and provide tips for overcoming design challenges for emerging interfaces like augmented and virtual reality, voice and… Read More
2023-05-17 04:00
Traditional KPIs fail to capture the quality of workplace experiences. Use these new metrics to increase employee satisfaction and engagement—and therefore productivity and revenue&mda&hell…Read More
2023-05-09 23:00
Unpopular third-party tracking tactics are on the decline. Pivot to a first-party data strategy to bolster customer relationships and boost revenue potential Read More
2023-05-03 04:00
How do you know whether a product is worth creating—and if it will sell? Start with this guide to uncover the value of your next product idea Read More
2023-05-03 04:00
Formosa enhances crypto wallet management by leveraging easy-to-remember, themed security sentences rather than traditional and disparate recovery keywords. Formosa is secure, intuitive, and… Read More
2023-04-26 04:00
Product management has evolved to encompass numerous roles, each with its own skill set and knowledge. So which one does your business need? Read More
2023-04-19 07:00
Isometric illustrations improve user experience and engagement—but they’re time-consuming to create. This tutorial teaches designers an easier, faster way Read More
2023-04-19 04:00
Whether it’s introducing a new organizational structure, tool, or process, project managers are often agents of change. Help team members adapt and thrive with these four strategies Read More
2023-04-13 04:00
What is psychological safety, and why do your designers need it? Digital designer Alejandro Velasco explains how to create a workplace environment that increases creativity, productivity, an… Read More
2023-04-13 04:00
In an increasingly volatile business environment, companies need to step up their risk management game. Forensic accounting can help spot oncoming problems before it’s too late Read More
2023-04-12 04:00
Building and scaling an AI product is an enormous undertaking. This implementation framework will help you organize assets, manage teams, and stay aligned with the product vision Read More
2023-04-10 04:00
To protect client data, your system must identify and block uninvited visitors. Create a REST API using Node.js, TypeScript, and Express, enhanced with JWT support Read More
2023-04-10 04:00
Discover the differences between React and Next.js, a framework used by companies like TikTok, Hulu, and Nike to supercharge their web apps. Plus: Learn when and how to use Next.js, includin… Read More
2023-04-05 04:00
Great AI products begin with an AI product strategy. Tackle complex development projects with this step-by-step planning guide Read More
2023-03-29 04:00
The booming AI product market is growing companies and careers. This primer on AI tech and product management will help you thrive in this fast-moving field Read More
2023-03-22 04:00
When an Agile project has too little time and too few resources, an extra planning boost from the critical chain method can keep a project on the path to success Read More
2023-03-17 04:00
Discover a powerful RxJS and React approach that adds state management to single-page applications. RxJS provides an elegant, succinct, and comfortable implementation for developers that bec… Read More
2023-03-16 04:00
Release fast but flawed, or wait and strive for perfection? Get the timing of your next product launch right with these expert tips Read More
2023-03-13 04:00
User personas help companies increase UX maturity and establish more effective design practices—improvements that may grow revenue and create positive ripple effects across organizatio… Read More
2023-03-09 05:00
Succeeding as a modern CFO is more demanding than ever before. Here are the skills you need to become a strategic partner who leverages technology and insights to drive growth and plan for t… Read More
2023-03-01 05:00
A good product strategy aligns team efforts, cuts costs, and encourages long-lasting conflict resolution. Three Toptal product design experts discuss how product strategies get derailed and… Read More
2023-02-28 05:00
Django’s built-in security checker identifies vulnerabilities with ease. Here’s how you can enforce HTTPS redirects to tighten security on your web applications Read More
2023-02-22 05:00
Agile has a reputation for delivering results in uncertain times and high-risk industries. But when risk management turns into a culture of total risk aversion, you may find that it comes at… Read More
2023-02-21 05:00
When capital is scarce, VCs may tighten their terms to reduce their risk. Here’s how to think through three of the most common preferred terms to ensure you don’t give away too m… Read More
2023-02-20 05:00
JavaScript’s default synchronous methods can freeze an application, scaring off end users. Here’s how you can leverage asynchronous JavaScript techniques to increase control over… Read More
2023-02-08 05:00
How is technology changing the way people shop for clothes? Designers explain how to use AR and VR to drive conversions and minimize returns Read More
2023-02-07 08:00
Programmers gain valuable real-world skills from algorithm competitions that can boost their job prospects—and contest ratings make it easier for hiring managers to find top talent. Ex… Read More
2023-02-02 05:00
What do Agile, Waterfall, and the former energy corporation Enron have in common? A strange shared history that may shed light on one of the most well-known conflicts in software development… Read More
2023-02-01 06:00
There are many ways for game UX designers to break into this multibillion-dollar industry. Using her 14 years of video game UX expertise, designer Pam Nicholls shares how Read More
2023-01-30 06:00
Microsoft’s Entity Framework Core is a popular object-relational mapper, but it doesn’t support the return of complex type results from stored procedures. A clever bit of code ge… Read More
2023-01-30 06:00
With the rise of big data, cloud, and streaming platforms, monolithic apps just won’t do. Here’s a blueprint for an adaptable and scalable event-driven microservices project usin… Read More
2023-01-30 06:00
It’s a catch-22 for young startups: How do you attract investors with compelling financial projections if you don’t have historical data? Here’s a three-part strategy for m… Read More
2023-01-25 05:00
Apply the four steps in this user flow analysis method to make your product development process more efficient—and improve UX for activities like app onboarding and checkout Read More
2023-01-24 06:00
A good user story can drive efficient planning, on-time delivery, team engagement, and customer satisfaction. Here’s a guide to creating one Read More
2023-01-23 06:00
S&OP can help a company create a long-term business plan to address supply chain disruptions. Make the most of this useful process with these updated best practices Read More
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