Don't Be A Bad Javascript User
Let me start off by saying that this is not going to be a javascript bashing article. I don't hate javascript, in fact I really do like it a lot--- although the title of this article may seem to the contrary. There are many javascript libraries that do really cool stuff. I love that many of these scripts enhance webpages without requiring the use of flash.
The problem I have been encountering lately has more to do with the improper use or implementation of javascript. I think there is far to much whiz-bang stuff being added to many of todays modern websites without considering the impact on users. I feel it's important that before you add a script or a feature to your site that you stop and ask yourself: Is this thing I am about to add to a site going to help my visitors or hurt them? Does it add any value to for the user? Does it hurt them if it's not there? Will it only cause more confusion?
Rather than just talk about it, I have compiled a few video clips to help demonstrate some bad uses of javascript.
