Should we use javascript?

[pyrite]

Hi, I am familiar with java and I am able to write some javascript to enhance the look of my website easily. But my question is "should I use it?" ?

 

Just curious, is there a tools that translate java to php? =)

[AlanR]

Just my personal opinion...

 

Stay away from it unless it's for some important function. I've seen way too many sites (including some linked from here) that use javascript to "prettify" a site and the site ends up semi broken in many browsers.

 

Always remember that the primary function of an ecommerce site is to sell stuff. If something adds nothing important and does not make the selling job easier forget it.

[djs]

It depends mostly on your customer base. First, don't confuse java and javascript. They are completely different. osCommerce makes use of JavaScript, and the good thing, it is installed and turned on inside any major browser by default.

 

If I was selling products to computer security geeks, I would avoid javascript. These guys will turn it off. Most other people have javascript enabled, it's how rollovers and popups work (most, not all).

 

I try to stay away from functionality where people have to install things, like flash and shockwave, for basic website functionality. It's okay to use these for some additional functionality but not everyone installs them. Javascript is already there.

 

Dan

[noob]

if u can test it and it works on different browsers

than yeah u shuld use it

it is not very hard to implement