Microsoft’s Fluid Framework: An introduction

Microsoft's Fluid Framework is an open-source technology designed to facilitate real-time collaboration and updates across users in applications like Office 365 and Teams. Unlike the SignalR protocol, which enables direct client-to-client communication, the Fluid Framework uses Distributed Data Structures (DDS) to manage and persist data updates efficiently. This framework allows developers to focus on user experience by handling the complexities of real-time data synchronization, offering flexibility to integrate with popular UI libraries such as React, Vue.js, and Angular. Key components include the Fluid Loader, Fluid Containers, and Fluid Service, which collectively manage data communication and storage. The technology has been demonstrated in various applications, including a sample Dice Roller app that showcases its ability to keep multiple client views synchronized. By making the Fluid Framework open-source, Microsoft aims to extend its collaborative capabilities beyond its ecosystem, potentially transforming how remote work and collaboration are approached in the digital space.