Django + GAE (Google App Engine): the most convenient way for beginners?

Question

First, do some preliminary data:

• Purpose: A mid-level web application that I will need to support and possibly extend for several years.
• Experience: good knowledge of python, some experience of MVC frameworks (in PHP).
• Desiderata: using django and the google engine .

I read a lot about compatibility issues between GAE and Django, and I know that the GAE patch , the norel project, and other similar code snippets. I also realized that the SDK provides some of the django features out of the box.

However, given that I have no previous experience with either Django or GAE , I cannot evaluate to what extent the use of the fixed version of Django will deprive important functions or how far provided in the SDK is compatible with Django. So I'm pretty confused about what would be the best way in my situation:

• Should I just use a fixed version of Django, since the differences with the original Django are so slight that I would not notice them?
• Should I completely write my application in "regular django" and try to port it to GAE only after that, when I get to understand the internals and philosophy of Django?
• Should I write my application using the framework that comes with the SDK and port it only to django?
• Should I...?

Thank you in advance for your time and advice.

Answer 1

I'm not sure if Django is right for you. Django is a great environment for stand-alone applications as it provides a complete stack solution: ORM, authentication system and admin interface, to name a few. You cannot use them in App Engine. In addition, many code examples are focused on using the built-in Webapp platform - you can very easily set cache expiration and authentication parameters in app.yaml for configuration.

I see one of two ways for you:

• Explore the application module with Webapp. There is enough to learn about the use of data warehouse services and App Engine, which will keep you in suspense.
• Explore Django with the App Engine. You will learn a lot about how to use Django ORM, admins, URLs, forms and templates.

Trying to learn both at the same time, you will spend more time than you need to learn the nuances of compatibility with Django / GAE, the time that you could spend either on learning Django, or on GAE.