Implement Typescript. This would improve documentation and code robustness

[sbland]

Implement TypeScript

This would improve documentation and code robustness

Summary

Implement TypeScript for the frontend of the Django application to improve type safety, documentation, and overall code robustness.
This change will reduce runtime errors, enhance development experience (e.g., IntelliSense and autocompletion), and make the frontend code more maintainable and self-documenting.

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Motivation / Problem

The current frontend is written in JavaScript, which offers flexibility but lacks static type checking. This can result in:

• Hidden runtime bugs caused by type mismatches.
• Unclear function signatures, component props, and state shapes.
• Lower developer confidence when refactoring or extending UI components.

Introducing TypeScript will make the codebase more predictable and consistent with modern frontend best practices.

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Proposed Solution

• Add TypeScript dependencies and create a tsconfig.json configuration file.
• Integrate TypeScript into the existing build process (e.g., via Webpack, Vite, or CRA config).
• Incrementally migrate .js and .jsx files to .ts and .tsx.
• Add or import type definitions for external libraries.
• Update ESLint/Prettier configuration to support TypeScript.
• Ensure CI/CD pipeline and static checks accommodate TypeScript compilation.

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Benefits

• Stronger type safety → fewer runtime errors.
• Improved developer experience via better tooling and autocompletion.
• Easier onboarding for new contributors through clearer code contracts.
• Enhanced maintainability and scalability for the frontend codebase.

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Potential Challenges

• Initial setup and migration effort.
• Some third-party libraries may require custom or external type definitions.
• Need to adjust existing build/test configurations.

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Next Steps

1. Add TypeScript and related dependencies.
2. Create and test initial tsconfig.json.
3. Migrate a small module or component as a proof of concept.
4. Gradually migrate remaining frontend files.
5. Update documentation and contribution guidelines to reflect the TypeScript workflow.