The latest React.js insights with Oskar Malinski

Welcome to .js MarketWatch — our interview series spotlighting developers and engineering leaders across the JavaScript landscape. Each month, we dive into a specific JS framework or trend through the lens of someone working at the heart of it.

This month features Oskar Malinski, Development Manager at EBM Software, discussing React.js and Styled Components.

Overview of Experience and Topic

On the front-end development side, styling is an important piece of the puzzle. Malinski’s team has been using Styled Components for styling project elements. He values this approach because “developers have full control over it and they still use CSS while using styled-components.”

Recently, the team standardized styling across projects by adopting HeroUI (formerly NextUI). They’ve experienced minimal issues and noted increased development speed while maintaining approximately 95% control over component styling.

Current Importance for Developers

Styling has historically been time-consuming, with numerous failed attempts to create universal styling libraries. HeroUI overcame many previous drawbacks, though companies must carefully evaluate whether adoption aligns with their business needs. Poor choices risk lacking documentation or unresolvable styling bugs.

6-12 Month Impact

Developers typically prefer styling systems they know, making popular choices like HeroUI and Shadcn UI more attractive for hiring. Libraries evolve — some gain maintenance improvements while others lose popularity due to usability issues. Developers must adapt as technologies change.

AI Application

Malinski considers himself “AI friendly.” His company is developing AI solutions to automatically generate folder and file hierarchies for users, potentially shortening their setup process.

Influential Resources and People

During the COVID period at Leisure Pass Group (GoCity), Malinski worked with five senior/lead developers from diverse backgrounds. Over three months, they created a flexible yet powerful structure enabling collaborative work. This experience proved “likely the most valuable in my career.”

Learning Recommendations

Career advancement depends on goals. For technical excellence, joining larger organizations provides exposure to multiple skilled professionals. Early-career developers at small companies risk absorbing poor practices. Proper mentorship normalizes career progression.

Current Learning Goals

The team uses D3 Charts and wants deeper expertise to create sophisticated financial visualizations. They’re exploring features like drill-down animations that transition from pie chart segments to detailed information.

Consultant Insights

React remains the most in-demand frontend framework in 2025, valued for widespread support, large community, and easier updates. Clients benefit from faster delivery, easier hiring, and long-term stability.

For streamlined hiring: modern frontend roles often include take-home challenges or pair-programming sessions. With high competition for skilled React developers (especially those with Next.js and TypeScript), concise and relevant interview processes are critical.