Streamlit - Enabling rapid deployment of light weight web applications

InsightRetail

15 Nov

Here we review Streamlit, a new technology that supports the building of web applications, and fast becoming a weapon of choice for us at QuantSpark.

What is Streamlit?

Streamlit has emerged as a game-changing technology in supporting the process of building lightweight web applications, enabling us to transform models into functional, user-friendly applications at speed, requiring minimal writing of code. Its Python-centric approach streamlines the process of productionising models, harnessing Python components to convert into HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code to display the app in a web browser, fast-tracking the journey from development to deployment.o one seamless search functionality:

Benefits of using Streamlit

One of the most significant benefits of Streamlit is its capacity to optimise client budgets by prioritising complex modelling tasks over building bespoke front-end software from the ground up. By leveraging Streamlit's pre-built Python components, we focus our efforts on enhancing core model logic and other areas that deliver value to end users at speed. Streamlit’s low code overhead empowers Analysts, Data Scientists and Model Engineers to create web applications, adding another capability to their arsenal. This translates to efficient utilisation of resources, ultimately leading to a quicker turnaround time in delivering innovative solutions to our clients.

Delivering a low-overhead web application to end users at speed reduces the feedback loop in the product development process, enabling quick iteration of the core features and reducing the time to validate hypotheses and find product market fit.

Use cases

Workflow automation and the facilitation of human-in-the-loop decision-making are key use cases where Streamlit shines. It acts as a catalyst in automating workflows, allowing for seamless integration of complex algorithms while ensuring human oversight where crucial decisions are involved. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also elevates the user experience by offering transparency and control.

Real world use case

A prime example of Streamlit's impact on our solutions is evident in the success of the Client Clearance Tool. Using Streamlit’s pre-built widgets, the tool allowed end users to drag and drop their Excel clearance list into the web application using an easy to use, clean user interface.

The strategic choice of Streamlit as the technology stack significantly expedited the development process. By opting for this Python-based front-end components package, we substantially reduced the time required to deliver a production-ready solution that delivered value to end users.

Summary

In essence, Streamlit emerges as a catalyst in QuantSpark’s quest to provide innovative and efficient solutions to clients. Its ability to expedite development, facilitate complex modelling, and empower human-in-the-loop decision-making underscores its significance in transforming ideas into functional, client-ready tools. As we continue on our path of innovation, Streamlit remains an indispensable asset, enabling us to deliver impactful solutions swiftly and effectively.