Framework Agnostic Web Languages

After a great time at a language agnostic conference this past weekend (I don't have pictures, I got a new camera and I forgot to bring it. I was so mad) I've gotten to thinking about framework agnostic languages. The ones you need to know whether you're a Python, C#, Ruby, or Java developer. I came up with the following list:

• HTML


• XML


• Javascript (JQuery, Prototype, YUI...etc)


• Querying languages (SQL, MySQL, Oracle)


• Regex (syntax, not language)

My point is, while it is important to be focused on whatever web framework we currently are working with these languages are a staple to our success. For the past few days I've been playing with Python, and so far I really like it. Say I wanted to switch from .NET, I would still be heavily working with these agnostic languages. 

This is why even though I may not be heavily into writing custom HTML/css I am still paying rapt attention to the HTML 5 / css 3 advances. Unless I decide to become a Doctor or a Fireman I will be no doubt referencing them for a long time. These languages have proven their worth by staying around since the beginning of the internet (when I was a wee lass) and I doubt they have any intention of leaving anytime soon.

Any good web developer should be extremely comfortable with any one of these fab 5. If you're worth your salt you know  that while you may not consistantly use these, your work will consistantly need to communicate on one of these levels, so it's important to know what's happening on the other side. 

I would even go as far to say that if you are a web developer the most important thing you can do is learn Javascript. I never used to make it a priority, and since I have my apps have improved dozens of times over. I hate doing anything in my controllers now. This too may pass, and I can't say that everyone should share my overzealousness.

Here are some great references for info about these framework agnostic languages. 

• SQL Server Community Blogs


• Doc Type - new Q & A site for css/html


• The JQuery Site


• Flagrent Badassery - Javascript and Regex blog


• MySQL Preacher

I realize my list is shamefully short, have any you would recommend?

Latest Article About Nerding it Up

Hey all, my latest article is up over at Datamation.

Check it out!! 

Announcing: Concept Camp (Camp)

  So, I've long been discussing Concept Camp (lovingly referred to as Camp Camp) and I've ironed out the details.  The dates are September 26th and 27th. It's looking like we will do the KOA in Hagerstown, MD We will be tenting it, and there is Wifi, water, and electricity (what more can a girl ask for). Friday night I plan on getting there, setting up tents, and roasting some marshmallows. Saturday day we will be giving talks (TBA), discussing frameworks and concepts, and playing some games (nerd games). Saturday night will be the party night so bring your beer hat (I make some amazing Jungle Juice, let me tell you). 

 I'm looking to make this a yearly thing, I think we can have a lot of fun. Contact me for details, to sign up, or to discuss possibly speaking. 

 Hope to see you there!!!!