My favourite JavaScript snippet of the day
// Extend Number's prototype returning leading zero for values < 10
// Returns (String)
if( typeof Number.prototype.padding == 'undefined' ){
Number.prototype.padding = function(){
return this < 10 ? "0"+this : this.toString();
};
}
// Example Use
var seconds = 5; // outputs (Number) "5"
var paddedSeconds = seconds.padding(); // outputs (String) "05"
Atlassian’s Jira should have a Preview mode
The Issue Navigator in Jira has really come along way since I first used it. Atlassian has focused on some pivotal User Experience principles, keeping it fun, interactive and adopting a core principle of Progressive Enhancement – respecting the users choice of device and user input.
As a strong advocate for keyboard shortcuts in web applications, I find the interactions within the application not only make me more productive, but make good sense. From the Issue Navigator, I can reopen, close, comment, apply a label, edit, assign, watch or even clone a task without having to actually go to the Jira issue itself, saving me an expensive traditional HTTP call.
It therefore stands to good reason that I should be able to Preview an issue or task without having to actually go to the Jira. Think of it as a lightweight version of the QuickLook feature on OSX. The modals are already build into the interface, and the AJAX methods and RESTful interface are already there.
Referencing the aforementioned core principle of Progressive Enhancement, providing the functionality and letting the user/s decide how they interact is inline with great user experiences.
Look Atlassian, I even created a mockup for you! #subtleYetGentleNudge 
WebDU 2011 – The web developer’s conference
It’s no secret that I’m a heavy advocate for progressively enhanced web development, and productive Agile teams. That’s why I’m highly recommending the WebDU conference in Darling Harbour (Sydney, Australia) this April 14th – 15th.
This year sees many talks covering the best of HTML5, CSS3, New Age JavaScript, Agile Project Management, Front-End Performance, and many more topics. It’s divided into three conference streams – “Beyond HTML”, “Experience”, and “Team”. The full agenda is available here.
I am also a speaker this year, with my topic of “Applied Agile, Scrum and Kanban“. It is always a great way to network with others in our industry, and usually a lot of fun too!
So if you’re serious about your web development, user experience, or development team, you should be at this year’s WebDU Conference!
"Essential JavaScript And jQuery Design Patterns" – A Free eBook
A pretty good read for a free eBook
Latest build of BigCommerce, now available
The team at BigCommerce have released the newest version of their e-commerce software, with almost 100 new features, bug fixes and enhancements.
You can catch their blog post which has release notes here:
http://www.bigcommerce.com/ecommerce-blog/newest-build-of-bigcommerce-released/
Keeping it Agile at BigCommerce
Today see’s the release of an article I wrote about why, and how we use Agile methodologies at BigCommerce, to keep on top of the challenges of being a SaaS company. I think it’s worth the read.
http://www.bigcommerce.com/ecommerce-blog/keeping-it-agile-at-bigcommerce/
Creative Work Cultures
ReadWriteStart have an interesting article (with 6 key points) on “Developing a Creative Work Culture“, worth the read.
Progressive Enhancement + CSS3
The folk at Perishable Press have put together a great guide to Progressive Enhancement and CSS3.
Check it out: http://perishablepress.com/press/2010/01/11/css3-progressive-enhancement-smart-design/
