The Revival of Handwritten Code: Is Pure HTML, CSS, and JS Making a Comeback?
As a freelance web developer, I’ve noticed a significant trend in my work: an increasing preference for coding websites from scratch using just HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for my smaller projects.
Reflecting on my journey, I began with pure HTML before quickly transitioning to popular platforms like WordPress and more recently, Webflow. However, my technical background often makes Webflow feel somewhat restrictive, especially when it comes to CSS selectors.
Recently, a client approached me needing a straightforward “digital business card.” Utilizing either Webflow or WordPress seemed excessive for a project that’s unlikely to change frequently. So, I opted for an old-school approach—handwriting the code. To my delight, I discovered that CSS has evolved significantly since my early days. While I was already familiar with flexbox and grid, I had missed many subtle enhancements that have streamlined modern Web Design. This experience motivated me to refresh my knowledge on current developments.
I find myself reminiscent of early 2000s Web Design, crafting sites in a simple text editor. It’s apparent that for a majority of small to medium-sized websites, a complex content management system isn’t necessary; many only require an annual update, such as a copyright change. Moreover, the cost of basic hosting is significantly lower than premium services like Webflow.
But what about the client’s ability to manage their own website? In my experience, very few clients truly take the reins on updating their sites themselves; perhaps five clients have genuinely engaged with their homepage updates or required a blog. More often than not, they simply reach out to me for assistance.
I make it a point to communicate with clients about the cost benefits of simpler hosting solutions, clarifying that while the initial hosting may be cheaper, my hourly fees for updates should be considered. For clients who only require an update once every decade, this arrangement tends to be more practical.
What are your thoughts? Are you still hand-coding your projects?
In conclusion, while modern platforms offer many conveniences, there’s an undeniable charm and efficiency in going back to the basics of web development. Whether it’s for the joy of coding or the sake of simplicity, it seems that pure HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are far from obsolete.
2 responses to “Are Pure HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Still Relevant Today?”
Absolutely, pure HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are not only still relevant but often preferred for specific projects, especially smaller ones where the overhead of a CMS might not be necessary or justified. The resurgence of interest in hand-coding can be attributed to several factors in the current web development landscape. Here are some insights and practical advice that could further inform your approach to using pure code:
1. Benefits of Using Pure Code
Simplicity and Control: Writing code from scratch provides you with complete control over every aspect of the website. You can optimize for performance, accessibility, and SEO without the bloat that sometimes accompanies various frameworks and CMS platforms.
Learning and Skill Enhancement: Diving back into pure HTML/CSS/JS is an excellent way to deepen your understanding of the web. The more familiar you are with native code, the better you will be at troubleshooting issues and implementing advanced features when needed.
Performance: Websites built with pure code tend to load faster than those reliant on heavy frameworks. This can lead to improved user experiences and better SEO outcomes, as page speed is a ranking factor.
2. Modern CSS and JavaScript Features
It’s great to hear you’ve been keeping up with the latest developments! Here are a few modern features that might enhance your work with HTML, CSS, and JS:
CSS Custom Properties (Variables): These allow for more flexible styling and can simplify theme changes.
Flexbox and CSS Grid: As you noted, these layout models provide powerful tools for responsive design without the hassle of excessive media queries.
JavaScript ES6+ Features: Learn about features such as template literals, arrow functions, and async/await syntax, which can make your code cleaner and more efficient.
Fetch API and AJAX: For dynamic content loading without needing a full CMS, using the Fetch API allows for asynchronous requests and dynamic updates.
3. Client Considerations
While most of your clients may not need a CMS for frequent updates, it’s worth considering a few options if you encounter clients who want some ability to change content:
Static Site Generators (SSGs): Tools like Jekyll or Hugo allow you to generate a static site while providing a more manageable editing environment for clients. You can use Markdown files which are simpler for non-tech-savvy users.
Headless CMS: Consider integrating a headless CMS like Contentful or Strapi for clients who may need to update content down the line. This setup can let you retain full control over the frontend while providing a user-friendly interface for managing content.
4. Cost Considerations for Clients
You’re right in your approach to discussing costs with clients. Establishing the value of a static HTML site versus more complex systems upfront can save misunderstandings later on. Make sure to convey the cost-effectiveness of a static site, especially for clients with minimal ongoing content needs.
5. Use Cases for Pure Code
Recent trends show that many businesses are moving towards minimalistic and faster websites. If you find that your project list includes portfolios, business cards, landing pages, or one-off promotional sites, then going back to basics with HTML, CSS, and JS can be a powerful choice.
Conclusion
Overall, pure HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are far from obsolete; they are very much alive in the landscape of web development and can be an excellent solution for the right projects. Staying updated with current best practices and features will only enhance your skillset, allowing you to choose the best tool for the job. Happy coding!
What an insightful post! Your reflections on the revival of hand-coding with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript resonate deeply with many developers who have navigated the ever-changing landscape of web development.
I find it particularly interesting how you pointed out the balance between complex frameworks and the simplicity of hand-written code. In many cases, simpler projects do benefit from a straightforward, code-first approach. This method not only fosters a deeper understanding of fundamental web technologies but also allows developers to innovate creatively without the constraints often imposed by heavy CMS platforms.
Additionally, your experience about client interactions is quite telling. It highlights an important aspect of our industry – the necessity for clear communication regarding client needs and expectations. Often, clients may not fully understand the intricacies of web upkeep and can easily be swayed by the allure of a robust CMS without realizing it may not cater to their specific requirements.
Moreover, it’s worth noting that as the web evolves, fundamental coding skills remain invaluable. With the rise of “no-code” and “low-code” solutions, a solid understanding of HTML, CSS, and JS empowers developers to customize and troubleshoot beyond the limitations of these platforms.
Have you considered documenting your journey or perhaps sharing specific challenges you faced when transitioning back to hand-coding? That could provide great insights to others who might be contemplating a similar path. Thank you for sparking this important conversation!