singlepage

Singlepage is a term used to describe a class of web architecture in which a site or application loads a single HTML document and then updates content dynamically without full page reloads. It is often used interchangeably with the concept of a single-page application (SPA). Some writers also use singlepage to emphasize the cohesive, app-like experience delivered within one page.

Historically, the approach emerged with AJAX techniques in the mid-2000s, enabling more responsive interfaces. The idea gained broad adoption in the 2010s through JavaScript frameworks and libraries such as Angular, React, Vue, and Backbone, which provide structures for managing state and updating the UI on the client side.

Architecturally, a singlepage model typically relies on a client-side router to manage navigation and an API layer for data. Content is fetched as needed via asynchronous requests, and the Document Object Model is updated without full page reloads. Navigation can use the History API or hash-based routing to present a seamless experience while still allowing bookmarking and back/forward actions. The initial load usually serves an app shell and core assets, with subsequent interactions retrieving data as required.

Advantages of the singlepage approach include smoother user experiences, reduced full-page reloads, and the ability to deliver app-like interactivity. It can also improve perceived performance after the initial load and simplify complex UI state management in the browser.

Challenges include search engine optimization and content indexing, accessibility considerations, and higher initial payloads. To address these, developers employ techniques such as server-side rendering, pre-rendering, or dynamic rendering, along with careful performance and accessibility tuning.

See also: single-page application, AJAX, progressive web app, server-side rendering, API-driven architecture.