Web Components Did Not Fail

In a recent article, Danny Engelman challenges the narrative that Web Components have failed, arguing that the technology is a fundamental part of the browser platform. He points out that browser vendors have utilized component-based architectures for decades to build native elements like <video> and <input>. Engelman suggests that the perceived failure stems from a developer mindset that prioritizes complex application frameworks over simple, encapsulated components. He encourages developers to move away from over-engineering and dependency-heavy workflows, advocating instead for a shift where applications are built with frameworks, but individual components are built using native Web Components. By leveraging the browser's built-in capabilities rather than relying on external libraries, developers can create more modular and efficient code. Ultimately, the author asserts that Web Components are not a failed experiment, but a powerful, underutilized tool that requires a change in perspective to be fully realized.