Spawning child processes enables Node.js applications to execute external commands and programs with real-time output streaming and better resource management than buffered alternatives. As the creator of CoreUI, a widely used open-source UI library, I’ve implemented process spawning in Node.js build tools throughout my 11 years of backend development. The most efficient approach is using the spawn method from the child_process module for commands that produce large outputs or run for extended periods. This method streams output as it becomes available, preventing memory issues with large data.

Child processes enable Node.js applications to execute external commands, scripts, and programs in separate processes with proper resource isolation. As the creator of CoreUI, a widely used open-source UI library, I’ve implemented child process management in Node.js applications throughout my 11 years of backend development. The most versatile approach is using the child_process module’s spawn method for streaming output and flexible command execution. This method provides real-time output handling and better memory management for long-running processes.