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Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:
  • Understand Next.js App Router architecture and its benefits over traditional React applications
  • Set up a Next.js project and configure it for enterprise-scale applications
  • Differentiate between server and client components and know when to use each
  • Implement file-based routing and understand the new routing paradigm
  • Create a migration strategy for converting React components to Next.js components
  • Set up the development environment for the VSL Service Center migration project
Time Estimate: 2-3 weeks (15-20 hours total)

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Essential Resources

Before diving into the lessons, familiarize yourself with the foundational concepts:

Module 1: Fundamentals

Essential Foundational Material: Domain knowledge areas, quick reference guides, and troubleshooting tips for Module 1 concepts.
Pro Tip: Bookmark the fundamentals page and refer to it throughout the module. Individual sections are also included in lesson pages as optional review material.

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Module Structure

1.1 Next.js App Router Fundamentals

Duration: 4-5 hours Learn the core concepts of Next.js App Router, server components, and the new architecture paradigm.

1.2 Project Setup & Migration Strategy

Duration: 3-4 hours Set up your Next.js project and create a comprehensive migration strategy for the VSL Service Center.

1.3 Component Migration & Routing

Duration: 4-5 hours Migrate your first React components to Next.js and implement the new routing structure.

1.4 Server vs Client Components

Duration: 3-4 hours Master the distinction between server and client components and optimize your application architecture.

1.5 Layouts & Templates

Duration: 2-3 hours Implement layouts and templates to create consistent UI patterns across your application.

1.6 Module 1 Assessment

Duration: 2-3 hours Test your knowledge and demonstrate your migration skills with hands-on exercises.

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Prerequisites

Before starting this module, ensure you have:
  • Intermediate understanding of React components and hooks
  • Familiarity with JavaScript ES6+ features
  • Basic knowledge of Node.js and npm
  • Understanding of file system and project structure concepts
  • Access to the VSL Service Center codebase
Pro Tip: Take detailed notes as you progress through each section. The concepts build upon each other, and you’ll want to reference these fundamentals throughout the rest of the course.

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Real-World Context

In this module, you’ll work with the actual VSL Service Center application, a warehouse management system that includes:

Complex Component Structure

Multiple interconnected components with shared state and complex interactions

Authentication System

User login, role-based access control, and session management

Data Management

Master data management for customers, suppliers, materials, and locations

Transaction Processing

Complex business logic for inward/outward processing and inventory management

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Module Outcomes

By the end of this module, you will have:
  • ✅ Set up a Next.js 14 project with App Router
  • ✅ Created a comprehensive migration strategy document
  • ✅ Migrated at least 5 React components to Next.js
  • ✅ Implemented proper routing structure
  • ✅ Demonstrated understanding of server vs client components
  • ✅ Created layouts and templates for consistent UI

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Assessment Criteria

Your progress will be evaluated based on:

Technical Implementation

  • Successful component migration - Proper use of server/client components - Correct routing implementation - Code quality and best practices

Understanding & Documentation

  • Migration strategy documentation - Explanation of architectural decisions
  • Troubleshooting and problem-solving - Knowledge demonstration

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Next Steps

After completing this module, you’ll be ready to move on to Module 2: Data Integration & API Modernization, where you’ll:
  • Modernize the VSL-Api backend
  • Implement API routes and server actions
  • Integrate database connections
  • Set up authentication systems
Key Takeaway: This module establishes the foundation for modern Next.js development and prepares you for the complex integration work ahead in subsequent modules.