Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley are the hosts of the No Script Show, and in this episode, they’re diving into the vast topic of website forms.Forms, as they point out, are what make the web interactive, without them, you can’t do things like search, comment, shop online, or even book an appointment. But adding forms, especially to static websites, can be a lot more involved than it first appears.They start by sharing their personal journeys and frustrations with forms, both as web developers and as people helping clients with website interactivity. They discuss the explosion in the number of static and hybrid sites, and the need for third-party form solutions if you’re not using a dynamic platform like WordPress. The conversation ranges from specific client expectations, like the belief that ‘if you build a booking form, bookings will magically come’, to why forms can be both a blessing and a pain to administer.They unpack when you might actually need a form, and look into some eye-opening statistics about contact forms, such as how they typically convert much less than direct clickable emails or phone numbers.Along the way, Nathan and David look at alternatives to forms, like WhatsApp links and website chat, and why simply putting a phone number on the site could sometimes be the best UX decision of all.For those who do need a form, the hosts provide an overview of the different options available, from DIY setups using third-party endpoints like FormSpark, all the way up to full-featured SaaS form builders such as Jotform, Paperform, and Tally. They touch on accessibility, cost, performance, spam issues, and how keeping things simple can often be the smartest move.If you want to understand the real value, challenges, and modern choices for website forms, whether you run static sites, work with WordPress, or are helping clients decide what’s best, this episode is for you.

Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley are the hosts of the No Script Show, and in this episode, they’re diving into the vast topic of website forms.Forms, as they point out, are what make the web interactive, without them, you can’t do things like search, comment, shop online, or even book an appointment. But adding forms, especially to static websites, can be a lot more involved than it first appears.They start by sharing their personal journeys and frustrations with forms, both as web developers and as people helping clients with website interactivity. They discuss the explosion in the number of static and hybrid sites, and the need for third-party form solutions if you’re not using a dynamic platform like WordPress. The conversation ranges from specific client expectations, like the belief that ‘if you build a booking form, bookings will magically come’, to why forms can be both a blessing and a pain to administer.They unpack when you might actually need a form, and look into some eye-opening statistics about contact forms, such as how they typically convert much less than direct clickable emails or phone numbers.Along the way, Nathan and David look at alternatives to forms, like WhatsApp links and website chat, and why simply putting a phone number on the site could sometimes be the best UX decision of all.For those who do need a form, the hosts provide an overview of the different options available, from DIY setups using third-party endpoints like FormSpark, all the way up to full-featured SaaS form builders such as Jotform, Paperform, and Tally. They touch on accessibility, cost, performance, spam issues, and how keeping things simple can often be the smartest move.If you want to understand the real value, challenges, and modern choices for website forms, whether you run static sites, work with WordPress, or are helping clients decide what’s best, this episode is for you.

No Script Show

Ep25. Form options for static websites

This is the fourth episode in our ongoing series about the different components that make up a website, and today we’re diving deep into the world of testimonials, block quotes, pull quotes, and the cite element, and why so many of us are probably coding them all wrong.Nathan and David take a look at how these quote elements are handled from technical, design, accessibility, and SEO perspectives. Inspired by resources like Kevin Powell’s “Is HTML the Hardest Language?” and the work of Hayden Pickering, they set out to demystify the (often confusing) specifics of semantic HTML, particularly around quotes and citations.We start with the basics: where quotes show up, be it testimonials for credibility, comments for engagement, or pull quotes for stylistic flair, and debate what pull quotes really are. Then, they walk through the evolution of HTML specifications, the ongoing confusion around the best markup for quotations, and how expert voices like Hayden Pickering and Adrian Roselli suggest different, sometimes contradictory approaches to structuring quotes, citations, and testimonials.You’ll learn why using blockquote for pull quotes isn’t recommended, and why the cite element doesn’t always do what you think, or anything useful at all. David and Nathan talk through common patterns for testimonials (with author images, company names, and more), how to structure them for maximum meaning and accessibility, and why major platforms like WordPress often stray from the specification.The episode also covers the practicalities: how to rationalise your code, how to use article and aside elements when appropriate, and even touches on the perennial pull quote debate, are they worth the trouble (especially for screen readers and responsive layouts)?If you’ve ever wondered how to properly mark up quotes and testimonials in your HTML, and how to future-proof your work for accessibility and SEO, this episode is for you.

This is the fourth episode in our ongoing series about the different components that make up a website, and today we’re diving deep into the world of testimonials, block quotes, pull quotes, and the cite element, and why so many of us are probably coding them all wrong.Nathan and David take a look at how these quote elements are handled from technical, design, accessibility, and SEO perspectives. Inspired by resources like Kevin Powell’s “Is HTML the Hardest Language?” and the work of Hayden Pickering, they set out to demystify the (often confusing) specifics of semantic HTML, particularly around quotes and citations.We start with the basics: where quotes show up, be it testimonials for credibility, comments for engagement, or pull quotes for stylistic flair, and debate what pull quotes really are. Then, they walk through the evolution of HTML specifications, the ongoing confusion around the best markup for quotations, and how expert voices like Hayden Pickering and Adrian Roselli suggest different, sometimes contradictory approaches to structuring quotes, citations, and testimonials.You’ll learn why using blockquote for pull quotes isn’t recommended, and why the cite element doesn’t always do what you think, or anything useful at all. David and Nathan talk through common patterns for testimonials (with author images, company names, and more), how to structure them for maximum meaning and accessibility, and why major platforms like WordPress often stray from the specification.The episode also covers the practicalities: how to rationalise your code, how to use article and aside elements when appropriate, and even touches on the perennial pull quote debate, are they worth the trouble (especially for screen readers and responsive layouts)?If you’ve ever wondered how to properly mark up quotes and testimonials in your HTML, and how to future-proof your work for accessibility and SEO, this episode is for you.

Ep24. Don't quote us on this!

This is the third episode in the series exploring the different components that make up a website, and today’s focus is on the often-overlooked but vitally important head element in HTML.Nathan and David kick things off by admitting that, like many web professionals, they haven’t thought deeply about the head for quite some time, despite its massive impact on performance, accessibility, and SEO. Drawing from their own experiences as CMS users and enthusiasts, they dig into what the head is, the key tags you can (and must) use, and which practices are still essential in modern web development.They cover everything from the basic meta tags you need for setting character encoding, viewport scaling, and page titles, to why the order of scripts and styles in your head can dramatically affect site speed and user experience. David explains some of the technical nuances, like choosing between inline styles and external stylesheets and recent updates that now allow for SVG favicons with light and dark mode support, thanks to the latest version of Safari.They also discuss SEO considerations, such as canonical tags, language declarations, and social sharing metadata, along with hands-on tips to help you validate your sites and avoid common mistakes, like using special characters in titles that may trip up screen readers or search engines.If you build or maintain websites and haven’t recently double-checked your head element, this episode is well worth your time.By the end, Nathan and David will have you rethinking and refreshing your approach to the head of your HTML, ensuring you’re setting up your sites for the best possible technical, SEO, and accessibility outcomes.

This is the third episode in the series exploring the different components that make up a website, and today’s focus is on the often-overlooked but vitally important head element in HTML.Nathan and David kick things off by admitting that, like many web professionals, they haven’t thought deeply about the head for quite some time, despite its massive impact on performance, accessibility, and SEO. Drawing from their own experiences as CMS users and enthusiasts, they dig into what the head is, the key tags you can (and must) use, and which practices are still essential in modern web development.They cover everything from the basic meta tags you need for setting character encoding, viewport scaling, and page titles, to why the order of scripts and styles in your head can dramatically affect site speed and user experience. David explains some of the technical nuances, like choosing between inline styles and external stylesheets and recent updates that now allow for SVG favicons with light and dark mode support, thanks to the latest version of Safari.They also discuss SEO considerations, such as canonical tags, language declarations, and social sharing metadata, along with hands-on tips to help you validate your sites and avoid common mistakes, like using special characters in titles that may trip up screen readers or search engines.If you build or maintain websites and haven’t recently double-checked your head element, this episode is well worth your time.By the end, Nathan and David will have you rethinking and refreshing your approach to the head of your HTML, ensuring you’re setting up your sites for the best possible technical, SEO, and accessibility outcomes.

Ep23. Are we right in the head?

On the podcast today, we’re joined by Paul Lacey.Paul has been working in web design and development since 1999, and in that time he’s witnessed the evolution of the industry from the early days without CSS, through the dot-com boom, to the modern era of design systems. He’s put together his own design systems for professional and client work, and brings first-hand, practical experience to our chat. Paul joins our regular hosts, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley, to help demystify what “design systems” actually are, and why they might matter to all of us, not just the largest organisations.We kick things off by uncovering the surprisingly varied definitions of design systems, including perspectives from the Nielsen Norman Group and Figma. The conversation quickly turns to what design systems look like in real-world settings: are they just libraries of reusable components, or do they go deeper than the visual layer to include things like code, documentation, and accessibility?Paul, David, and Nathan talk through the differences between style guides, design tokens, component libraries, and pattern libraries, and where the lines between them blur. We touch on how design systems operate in organisations of all sizes, from solo freelancers to giant institutions like the UK government, and how the goal of a design system isn’t just making things look good, but improving collaboration, maintaining consistency, and supporting accessibility.If you’ve ever wondered how to get started with a design system, whether to build your own or adapt an off-the-shelf solution, or why some systems succeed while others become overly complex, this episode is for you. We also talk about the long-term benefits and pitfalls: does consistency stifle creativity? How do design systems need to evolve alongside technology? And how do they stay resilient in an ever-changing industry?If you’re curious about design systems—or want to build more efficient, accessible, and lasting websites—this episode is packed with insights, practical tips, and plenty of honest stories about what happens when theory meets practice.

On the podcast today, we’re joined by Paul Lacey.Paul has been working in web design and development since 1999, and in that time he’s witnessed the evolution of the industry from the early days without CSS, through the dot-com boom, to the modern era of design systems. He’s put together his own design systems for professional and client work, and brings first-hand, practical experience to our chat. Paul joins our regular hosts, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley, to help demystify what “design systems” actually are, and why they might matter to all of us, not just the largest organisations.We kick things off by uncovering the surprisingly varied definitions of design systems, including perspectives from the Nielsen Norman Group and Figma. The conversation quickly turns to what design systems look like in real-world settings: are they just libraries of reusable components, or do they go deeper than the visual layer to include things like code, documentation, and accessibility?Paul, David, and Nathan talk through the differences between style guides, design tokens, component libraries, and pattern libraries, and where the lines between them blur. We touch on how design systems operate in organisations of all sizes, from solo freelancers to giant institutions like the UK government, and how the goal of a design system isn’t just making things look good, but improving collaboration, maintaining consistency, and supporting accessibility.If you’ve ever wondered how to get started with a design system, whether to build your own or adapt an off-the-shelf solution, or why some systems succeed while others become overly complex, this episode is for you. We also talk about the long-term benefits and pitfalls: does consistency stifle creativity? How do design systems need to evolve alongside technology? And how do they stay resilient in an ever-changing industry?If you’re curious about design systems—or want to build more efficient, accessible, and lasting websites—this episode is packed with insights, practical tips, and plenty of honest stories about what happens when theory meets practice.

Ep22. Are design systems worth it?

On the podcast today, David and Nathan are back with the second episode in their new series, where they break down the key components that make up a website. Today, they’re talking about website navigation, and asking the surprisingly sticky question: why is it so bloody awful?David has done a deep dive into the ins and outs of navigation, putting together an exhaustive list of all the pieces involved. Nathan admits he used to take a much simpler approach, just add the top-level links and hope Google did the rest, but David’s research proves there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface.They start by exploring the shifting meaning of terms like “menu,” “navigation,” and “nav,” both from a developer and a user’s perspective. Is it a noun? Is it a verb? Is it a technical role? As they discovered, even big names in UX like the Nielsen Norman Group can’t seem to agree.From there, they walk through the many different types of website navigation: main links, hamburger menus, even on desktop, breadcrumbs, dropdowns (on hover or click), mega menus, and more. And it’s not just the styles that are confusing, there’s a tangle of terminology too, with “dropdowns,” “flyouts,” and “pull downs” meaning different things to different people.David and Nathan share their frustrations with modern navigation: hidden menu items, ambiguous links, and the accessibility pitfalls of complicated dropdowns. They talk about why menus can be especially tricky on mobile, and how easy it is for even pros to get lost in their own site’s nav. David explains his approach of keeping things simple, stopping at HTML and CSS wherever possible, and only grudgingly adding JavaScript when absolutely needed.They then explore the design, SEO, and accessibility issues that come with modern navigation patterns: from accidentally hiding important links from both users and Google, to building mega menus that are impossible to navigate by keyboard, to the sheer overwhelm of too many choices.The conversation is packed with real-world frustrations, rants about hover-based menus, and practical tips on creating accessible, user-friendly website navigation. If you’ve ever been baffled by your own website’s menu, or just want to build smarter, simpler navigation that works for everyone, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today, David and Nathan are back with the second episode in their new series, where they break down the key components that make up a website. Today, they’re talking about website navigation, and asking the surprisingly sticky question: why is it so bloody awful?David has done a deep dive into the ins and outs of navigation, putting together an exhaustive list of all the pieces involved. Nathan admits he used to take a much simpler approach, just add the top-level links and hope Google did the rest, but David’s research proves there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface.They start by exploring the shifting meaning of terms like “menu,” “navigation,” and “nav,” both from a developer and a user’s perspective. Is it a noun? Is it a verb? Is it a technical role? As they discovered, even big names in UX like the Nielsen Norman Group can’t seem to agree.From there, they walk through the many different types of website navigation: main links, hamburger menus, even on desktop, breadcrumbs, dropdowns (on hover or click), mega menus, and more. And it’s not just the styles that are confusing, there’s a tangle of terminology too, with “dropdowns,” “flyouts,” and “pull downs” meaning different things to different people.David and Nathan share their frustrations with modern navigation: hidden menu items, ambiguous links, and the accessibility pitfalls of complicated dropdowns. They talk about why menus can be especially tricky on mobile, and how easy it is for even pros to get lost in their own site’s nav. David explains his approach of keeping things simple, stopping at HTML and CSS wherever possible, and only grudgingly adding JavaScript when absolutely needed.They then explore the design, SEO, and accessibility issues that come with modern navigation patterns: from accidentally hiding important links from both users and Google, to building mega menus that are impossible to navigate by keyboard, to the sheer overwhelm of too many choices.The conversation is packed with real-world frustrations, rants about hover-based menus, and practical tips on creating accessible, user-friendly website navigation. If you’ve ever been baffled by your own website’s menu, or just want to build smarter, simpler navigation that works for everyone, this episode is for you.

Ep21. Website Navigation Why is it so bloody awful?

On the podcast today we have the usual suspects - Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley.This is the first in a new series where Nathan and David take a deep dive into different website components - today’s focus is on accordions. You know the ones: those hide-and-show sections you often see on FAQ pages, product details, or anywhere there’s a need to tidy up lots of information into collapsible panels. But what makes an accordion actually a good solution for your site, and when does it start to get in the way?Nathan and David kick things off by defining what an accordion is (with a nod to the UX authorities and the W3C) - and clarifying, with a bit of humour, what does and does not count as an accordion out in the wild. They look at the types of accordions - exclusive, non-exclusive, and toggle - and discuss how these patterns got established in web design.They also reflect on their own use (and sometimes overuse) of accordions in client work, especially handy within page builders, and how their thinking has changed as the web’s evolved.Then it’s onto the technical side: the code needed. David explains why, until recently, JavaScript was essential for accessible accordions, but now, thanks to advances in HTML (details and summary elements), CSS (with exciting new features like interpolate size), and improved browser support, you can build robust accordions without a single line of JavaScript - plus some important gotchas and accessibility considerations to watch for.They round things off by discussing when accordions add value - helping reduce overwhelm and improve scanability (is that a word?!) - and when they can cause problems, like increasing "interaction cost," fragmenting information, or raising accessibility and SEO concerns. There are design details to consider, as well as practical recommendations for ensuring your accordions are friendly for both users and search engines.And if you want to see these concepts put into practice, the episode is paired with a follow-up video where David and Nathan demonstrate real code snippets and examples at noscript.show/learn/12.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re using accordions for the right reasons, how to build them the modern way, or want a clearer picture of their pros and cons - you won’t want to miss this episode. Timestamps:00:00 Accordion Design and Definition06:22 FAQ Page Building Approach07:52 HTML-Only Accordions Evolve12:04 "Content Organization: Pros and Cons"13:47 Logitech Product Page Analysis16:56 "Accordion Utility in CMS Design"22:02 Browser Styling Challenges and Limitations24:49 Schema Markup for FAQs27:43 "Purpose of Hiding FAQ Content"29:56 "New Development Wrap-Up"

On the podcast today we have the usual suspects - Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley.This is the first in a new series where Nathan and David take a deep dive into different website components - today’s focus is on accordions. You know the ones: those hide-and-show sections you often see on FAQ pages, product details, or anywhere there’s a need to tidy up lots of information into collapsible panels. But what makes an accordion actually a good solution for your site, and when does it start to get in the way?Nathan and David kick things off by defining what an accordion is (with a nod to the UX authorities and the W3C) - and clarifying, with a bit of humour, what does and does not count as an accordion out in the wild. They look at the types of accordions - exclusive, non-exclusive, and toggle - and discuss how these patterns got established in web design.They also reflect on their own use (and sometimes overuse) of accordions in client work, especially handy within page builders, and how their thinking has changed as the web’s evolved.Then it’s onto the technical side: the code needed. David explains why, until recently, JavaScript was essential for accessible accordions, but now, thanks to advances in HTML (details and summary elements), CSS (with exciting new features like interpolate size), and improved browser support, you can build robust accordions without a single line of JavaScript - plus some important gotchas and accessibility considerations to watch for.They round things off by discussing when accordions add value - helping reduce overwhelm and improve scanability (is that a word?!) - and when they can cause problems, like increasing "interaction cost," fragmenting information, or raising accessibility and SEO concerns. There are design details to consider, as well as practical recommendations for ensuring your accordions are friendly for both users and search engines.And if you want to see these concepts put into practice, the episode is paired with a follow-up video where David and Nathan demonstrate real code snippets and examples at noscript.show/learn/12.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re using accordions for the right reasons, how to build them the modern way, or want a clearer picture of their pros and cons - you won’t want to miss this episode.Timestamps:00:00 Accordion Design and Definition06:22 FAQ Page Building Approach07:52 HTML-Only Accordions Evolve12:04 "Content Organization: Pros and Cons"13:47 Logitech Product Page Analysis16:56 "Accordion Utility in CMS Design"22:02 Browser Styling Challenges and Limitations24:49 Schema Markup for FAQs27:43 "Purpose of Hiding FAQ Content"29:56 "New Development Wrap-Up"

Ep20. Website accordions the good the bad and the ugly

On the podcast today David Waumsley and Nathan Wrigley discuss some of the things that they've done well, and not so well over their 20 years as web site builders.David kicks off by reflecting on some common missteps: not fully understanding the nature of the web, getting distracted by new tools and dependencies, and forgetting the basic tenets of good markup and accessibility.He and Nathan talk about the importance of simple, semantic HTML first, focusing on communication before aesthetics, and the recurring struggle with over-complicating even the most basic sites.From there, they examine why recurring revenue is essential for freelancers, how face-to-face and honest communication with clients can be a superpower, and why being agile, building projects around the client rather than forcing the client into a predefined 'system', can be transformational.The episode is full of candid admissions and practical insights: David talks about his ongoing battle to minimise dependencies and keep his projects hand-off ready, the value of welcoming all kinds of clients/projects (even friends and family), and why he’s moved away from selling websites as self-contained 'products' towards offering them as ongoing, collaborative communication tools.Finally, Nathan and David lay out their plan for the future of the show: a practical series focused on building up a library of reusable website 'components', demonstrating not just how to write cleaner code, but how to think about user experience, accessibility, and long-term maintainability.If you want to become a better freelance web designer, or just want to hear what two experienced freelancers wish they’d done differently, this episode is for you. Timestamps: 00:00 Revisiting Web Design Fundamentals03:50 "Web Evolution and Future Trends"09:37 From HTML Learner to WordPress Builder10:23 Tech Complexity: Unnecessary Dependencies16:22 Balancing Solo Work and Agility19:24 Website Maintenance Challenges23:13 Early Web Development Business Growth26:10 Human Connection as Future Asset30:22 Misconceptions in Page Builder Circles33:23 "The Value of Being a Generalist"35:57 Prioritizing Content and Efficiency37:34 Streamlined Approach to Optimization

On the podcast today David Waumsley and Nathan Wrigley discuss some of the things that they've done well, and not so well over their 20 years as web site builders.David kicks off by reflecting on some common missteps: not fully understanding the nature of the web, getting distracted by new tools and dependencies, and forgetting the basic tenets of good markup and accessibility.He and Nathan talk about the importance of simple, semantic HTML first, focusing on communication before aesthetics, and the recurring struggle with over-complicating even the most basic sites.From there, they examine why recurring revenue is essential for freelancers, how face-to-face and honest communication with clients can be a superpower, and why being agile, building projects around the client rather than forcing the client into a predefined 'system', can be transformational.The episode is full of candid admissions and practical insights: David talks about his ongoing battle to minimise dependencies and keep his projects hand-off ready, the value of welcoming all kinds of clients/projects (even friends and family), and why he’s moved away from selling websites as self-contained 'products' towards offering them as ongoing, collaborative communication tools.Finally, Nathan and David lay out their plan for the future of the show: a practical series focused on building up a library of reusable website 'components', demonstrating not just how to write cleaner code, but how to think about user experience, accessibility, and long-term maintainability.If you want to become a better freelance web designer, or just want to hear what two experienced freelancers wish they’d done differently, this episode is for you.Timestamps:00:00 Revisiting Web Design Fundamentals03:50 "Web Evolution and Future Trends"09:37 From HTML Learner to WordPress Builder10:23 Tech Complexity: Unnecessary Dependencies16:22 Balancing Solo Work and Agility19:24 Website Maintenance Challenges23:13 Early Web Development Business Growth26:10 Human Connection as Future Asset30:22 Misconceptions in Page Builder Circles33:23 "The Value of Being a Generalist"35:57 Prioritizing Content and Efficiency37:34 Streamlined Approach to Optimization

Ep19. Becoming a better freelance web designer

On the podcast today Nathan and David explore changes in the world of web technology, with a particular focus on CSS and front-end development.They’re taking a step back to look at where CSS is heading, and in particular, how the rise of “programmatic CSS” is shifting the landscape for developers, designers, and anyone building for the web.If you feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new CSS specifications, features, and ideas, things like inline if statements, new functions, and increasingly dynamic capabilities, then you’re not alone.David shares his experience coming from a more traditional, declarative CSS background, and how the influx of new, more “programming-like” CSS features can make even the most confident among us feel lost at sea.Nathan and David begin by reflecting on their own experiences learning programming, and how the evolution of CSS is blurring the lines between a simple presentational language and a more robust toolset for web design. They talk about what actually constitutes a programming language, how the nature of CSS is changing, and why this matters for anyone used to building sites with page builders or more traditional CSS workflows.As the episode unfolds, they discuss the impact of these new CSS capabilities on everything from browser support to page builder UIs, to the continued importance of clear communication and content-first design.Along the way, they touch on topics like CSS generators, the roles of standards bodies like the W3C, and the practical realities of adopting new CSS features at different skill levels.Towards the end of the episode, they look at how these changes might shape the job market for front-end developers and designers, and what it will mean for agencies, clients, and those teaching themselves how to build for the web.If you’ve been hearing about “programmatic CSS,” feeling bewildered by the speed of change, or just want to get a sense of where things are heading and what skills might be important for the web’s next chapter, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today Nathan and David explore changes in the world of web technology, with a particular focus on CSS and front-end development.They’re taking a step back to look at where CSS is heading, and in particular, how the rise of “programmatic CSS” is shifting the landscape for developers, designers, and anyone building for the web.If you feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new CSS specifications, features, and ideas, things like inline if statements, new functions, and increasingly dynamic capabilities, then you’re not alone.David shares his experience coming from a more traditional, declarative CSS background, and how the influx of new, more “programming-like” CSS features can make even the most confident among us feel lost at sea.Nathan and David begin by reflecting on their own experiences learning programming, and how the evolution of CSS is blurring the lines between a simple presentational language and a more robust toolset for web design. They talk about what actually constitutes a programming language, how the nature of CSS is changing, and why this matters for anyone used to building sites with page builders or more traditional CSS workflows.As the episode unfolds, they discuss the impact of these new CSS capabilities on everything from browser support to page builder UIs, to the continued importance of clear communication and content-first design.Along the way, they touch on topics like CSS generators, the roles of standards bodies like the W3C, and the practical realities of adopting new CSS features at different skill levels.Towards the end of the episode, they look at how these changes might shape the job market for front-end developers and designers, and what it will mean for agencies, clients, and those teaching themselves how to build for the web.If you’ve been hearing about “programmatic CSS,” feeling bewildered by the speed of change, or just want to get a sense of where things are heading and what skills might be important for the web’s next chapter, this episode is for you.

Ep18. Programmatic CSS. Where is this going?

On the podcast today, we have Paul Lacey, an experienced UK designer deeply entrenched in the world of WordPress. With years of experience working with agencies and clients, Paul will help us tackle the question: should we be offering clients a Content Management System (CMS)?Paul brings a wealth of knowledge, having transitioned from a small agency owner to a freelance web consultant. He focuses on building websites and consulting, steering clear of marketing but fully embracing the technological side. We delve into the challenges and decisions surrounding the use of CMSs like WordPress, how they have influenced the design process over the years, and whether or not they are necessary for clients.We discuss the practical aspects of offering a CMS: managing content, user permissions, and dealing with the demands and constraints that often come with these systems. Paul shares his experiences navigating these waters, working with both direct clients and agencies, and his thoughts on where the industry might be headed.If you've ever grappled with the decision of whether to integrate a CMS into your workflow or simply offer bespoke solutions to your clients, this episode will provide you insight and perspective on the evolving landscape of web design and development.

On the podcast today, we have Paul Lacey, an experienced UK designer deeply entrenched in the world of WordPress. With years of experience working with agencies and clients, Paul will help us tackle the question: should we be offering clients a Content Management System (CMS)?Paul brings a wealth of knowledge, having transitioned from a small agency owner to a freelance web consultant. He focuses on building websites and consulting, steering clear of marketing but fully embracing the technological side. We delve into the challenges and decisions surrounding the use of CMSs like WordPress, how they have influenced the design process over the years, and whether or not they are necessary for clients.We discuss the practical aspects of offering a CMS: managing content, user permissions, and dealing with the demands and constraints that often come with these systems. Paul shares his experiences navigating these waters, working with both direct clients and agencies, and his thoughts on where the industry might be headed.If you've ever grappled with the decision of whether to integrate a CMS into your workflow or simply offer bespoke solutions to your clients, this episode will provide you insight and perspective on the evolving landscape of web design and development.

Ep17. Should we be offering clients a CMS?

On the podcast today, Nathan and David are exploring the fascinating world of the Indie Web, which presents itself as a people-focused alternative to the corporate-controlled web. This episode delves into what the Indie Web movement is all about, and why it might be the right choice for those concerned with the current state of internet ownership and privacy.Nathan talks about how the Indie Web prioritises individual ownership of content and domain usage as a primary online identity. David gets into how owning your online presence can be more aligned with a people-first approach.We also discuss topics such as the adoption of protocols like ActivityPub, which is helping to decentralise social media experiences with platforms like Mastodon, and how this growing trend away from corporate platforms towards more open, standards-based alternatives.The conversation also touches on the role of state interventions, privacy concerns, and the rise of creative independence on the web. There's intriguing developments like POSSE (Publish on your Own Site, Syndicate Elsewhere) and Web Mentions, which support decentralised and independent publishing.If you're intrigued by the shift towards a more humane, personalised web experience, or you're exploring how to reclaim your online identity, this episode is for you.Join Nathan and David as they explore not just the theoretical underpinnings of the Indie Web, but also practical steps you can take to become part of this movement.

On the podcast today, Nathan and David are exploring the fascinating world of the Indie Web, which presents itself as a people-focused alternative to the corporate-controlled web. This episode delves into what the Indie Web movement is all about, and why it might be the right choice for those concerned with the current state of internet ownership and privacy.Nathan talks about how the Indie Web prioritises individual ownership of content and domain usage as a primary online identity. David gets into how owning your online presence can be more aligned with a people-first approach.We also discuss topics such as the adoption of protocols like ActivityPub, which is helping to decentralise social media experiences with platforms like Mastodon, and how this growing trend away from corporate platforms towards more open, standards-based alternatives.The conversation also touches on the role of state interventions, privacy concerns, and the rise of creative independence on the web. There's intriguing developments like POSSE (Publish on your Own Site, Syndicate Elsewhere) and Web Mentions, which support decentralised and independent publishing.If you're intrigued by the shift towards a more humane, personalised web experience, or you're exploring how to reclaim your online identity, this episode is for you.Join Nathan and David as they explore not just the theoretical underpinnings of the Indie Web, but also practical steps you can take to become part of this movement.

Ep16. Indie Web: a people focussed alternative to the "corporate web"

On the podcast today, we’re diving deep into a crucial discussion for website developers and enthusiasts alike: the considerations between static and dynamic content-heavy websites. I’m joined by our hosts, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley, who will unravel the complexities of these two approaches. Throughout their conversation, Nathan and David explore various facets of website architecture, starting with the fundamental concept of atomizing components like headers and footers for efficient management. They delve into the resurgence of a more code-centric web development practice as opposed to the no-code trend typically associated with WordPress. Static site generators are a hot topic in this episode, with David and Nathan highlighting popular options like Hugo, 11ty, Next JS, and Astro. Despite these tools’ growing popularity, they don’t shy away from discussing the challenges, such as the need for technical skills and the overwhelming choice of over 365 static site generators. WordPress, a staple in their web development careers, is contrasted with newer static site approaches, noting the ease of use versus the deep control over code output. They also weigh in on SEO and automation considerations, crucial for content-heavy sites, and the financial aspects tied to maintaining WordPress sites. In a candid moment, David shares his experience transitioning to 11ty, a flexible static site generator favored for its simplicity and quick build times. They discuss the learning curve, especially for those not well-versed in JavaScript, and the potential of using 11ty for larger projectsThe dynamic vs. static debate continues as they consider the future of their own website, touching on personal reflections and the exciting possibilities that come with exploring new technologies. If you’re navigating the choice between dynamic content management systems like WordPress and the evolving landscape of static site generators, this episode promises valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in, and join Nathan and David as they tackle the dynamic and static showdown head-on.

On the podcast today, we’re diving deep into a crucial discussion for website developers and enthusiasts alike: the considerations between static and dynamic content-heavy websites. I’m joined by our hosts, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley, who will unravel the complexities of these two approaches.Throughout their conversation, Nathan and David explore various facets of website architecture, starting with the fundamental concept of atomizing components like headers and footers for efficient management. They delve into the resurgence of a more code-centric web development practice as opposed to the no-code trend typically associated with WordPress.Static site generators are a hot topic in this episode, with David and Nathan highlighting popular options like Hugo, 11ty, Next JS, and Astro. Despite these tools’ growing popularity, they don’t shy away from discussing the challenges, such as the need for technical skills and the overwhelming choice of over 365 static site generators.WordPress, a staple in their web development careers, is contrasted with newer static site approaches, noting the ease of use versus the deep control over code output. They also weigh in on SEO and automation considerations, crucial for content-heavy sites, and the financial aspects tied to maintaining WordPress sites.In a candid moment, David shares his experience transitioning to 11ty, a flexible static site generator favored for its simplicity and quick build times. They discuss the learning curve, especially for those not well-versed in JavaScript, and the potential of using 11ty for larger projectsThe dynamic vs. static debate continues as they consider the future of their own website, touching on personal reflections and the exciting possibilities that come with exploring new technologies.If you’re navigating the choice between dynamic content management systems like WordPress and the evolving landscape of static site generators, this episode promises valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in, and join Nathan and David as they tackle the dynamic and static showdown head-on.

Ep15. Static vs dynamic for content heavy websites

In this episode of No Script Show, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley dive into the evolving landscape of frontend development, focusing on the divide between UX designers and JavaScript specialists. Join us for a detailed discussion on the complexities and dynamics of modern web design.<ul><li>The role of Google and Meta in open source and their impact on project stability.</li><li>Evolution of CSS and JavaScript, including trends like using CSS as a programming language.</li><li>The growing complexity and specialisation in frontend development and its effects on newcomers.</li><li>Insights on the divide within WordPress development between block editors and traditional coding.</li><li>Emerging technologies like Web Assembly and their anticipated impact on web development.</li></ul>Timestamps:00:00 Summary: Last topic on WP Builds platform, relevant WordPress changes.05:20 Concerns about changes in web design industry.08:29 Women find communication jobs using HTML, JavaScript.11:11 Complex code could impact performance and users.15:56 Google and other companies support open source.17:44 JavaScript essential for front end developers.21:36 CSS grid enables fluid web design breakthroughs.23:21 Apple's advertising of seemingly pointless features.28:17 Efficient tools simplify CSS coding and structure.32:20 Brave browser activates reader mode automatically.33:22 Desire for web integration in everyday objects.37:05 Gutenberg's impact on WordPress page building.42:00 Coyier's article emphasises WebPress development and winners.43:16 Transitioning to video content from podcast.

In this episode of No Script Show, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley dive into the evolving landscape of frontend development, focusing on the divide between UX designers and JavaScript specialists. Join us for a detailed discussion on the complexities and dynamics of modern web design.The role of Google and Meta in open source and their impact on project stability.Evolution of CSS and JavaScript, including trends like using CSS as a programming language.The growing complexity and specialisation in frontend development and its effects on newcomers.Insights on the divide within WordPress development between block editors and traditional coding.Emerging technologies like Web Assembly and their anticipated impact on web development.Timestamps:00:00 Summary: Last topic on WP Builds platform, relevant WordPress changes.05:20 Concerns about changes in web design industry.08:29 Women find communication jobs using HTML, JavaScript.11:11 Complex code could impact performance and users.15:56 Google and other companies support open source.17:44 JavaScript essential for front end developers.21:36 CSS grid enables fluid web design breakthroughs.23:21 Apple's advertising of seemingly pointless features.28:17 Efficient tools simplify CSS coding and structure.32:20 Brave browser activates reader mode automatically.33:22 Desire for web integration in everyday objects.37:05 Gutenberg's impact on WordPress page building.42:00 Coyier's article emphasises WebPress development and winners.43:16 Transitioning to video content from podcast.

Ep14. The Frontend Divide: UX Designers vs JavaScript Specialists

Join Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley as they dive into the latest W3C report on AI and its impact on the web, exploring the future of AI standards and ethical considerations. Discover the potential and challenges AI brings to web browsing, creativity, and data management.<ul><li>Discussion on environmental costs and sustainability of AI technology.</li><li>Concerns about AI over-hype and its impact on creative and entry-level jobs.</li><li>Insights into the W3C's proposed AI standards for transparency and data control.</li><li>The debate over AI's ability to understand the context in creative tasks.</li><li>Potential regulatory roles of governments and the changing perspectives on data ownership.</li></ul>Timestamps:00:00 AI may eliminate entry-level creative career opportunities.06:03 CSS evolving backward to old techniques, concerns.08:15 AI struggles with decision-making, enjoys watching mistakes.13:02 Questioning involvement with global, political, economic motives.16:18 Report outlines stages: input, interviews, standardization, success.17:52 AI impact and ethical concerns in technology.21:03 AI poses threat to web accessibility, SEO.24:22 Support for HTML markup for accessibility despite pushback.28:39 Personal connection drives services, predicts big tech breakup.32:44 AI progress may slow due to costs.34:34 Human condition demands continuous exponential improvement in content.37:32 Organizations' short-term profit vs. long-term AI future.40:39 David will make changes, but it was lovely.

Join Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley as they dive into the latest W3C report on AI and its impact on the web, exploring the future of AI standards and ethical considerations. Discover the potential and challenges AI brings to web browsing, creativity, and data management.Discussion on environmental costs and sustainability of AI technology.Concerns about AI over-hype and its impact on creative and entry-level jobs.Insights into the W3C's proposed AI standards for transparency and data control.The debate over AI's ability to understand the context in creative tasks.Potential regulatory roles of governments and the changing perspectives on data ownership.Timestamps:00:00 AI may eliminate entry-level creative career opportunities.06:03 CSS evolving backward to old techniques, concerns.08:15 AI struggles with decision-making, enjoys watching mistakes.13:02 Questioning involvement with global, political, economic motives.16:18 Report outlines stages: input, interviews, standardization, success.17:52 AI impact and ethical concerns in technology.21:03 AI poses threat to web accessibility, SEO.24:22 Support for HTML markup for accessibility despite pushback.28:39 Personal connection drives services, predicts big tech breakup.32:44 AI progress may slow due to costs.34:34 Human condition demands continuous exponential improvement in content.37:32 Organizations' short-term profit vs. long-term AI future.40:39 David will make changes, but it was lovely.

Ep13. What is the W3C doing about AI?

In this episode of No Script Show, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley delve into the intricate world of web typography and its evolution. From historical practices to modern advancements, they uncover the elements that shape today's web design. - Transition from pixels to rems and its impact on accessibility- Exploring new features in web typography like font loading and background clipping- Importance of fluid typography and tools like Utopia CSS generator- Challenges and beauty of typography for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean characters- Benefits of chromatic fonts, CSS columns, and underused HTML tags like kbd and wbr Timestamps:00:00 Web design historically overlooked readability and formatting.03:40 Fascinated by typography, but career path chosen.06:34 Web design: Typography shifts in responsive web.09:59 REMS, viewport units, fluid typography revolutionize design.14:13 Fluid typography adapts, but has limitations with zoom.18:17 Discussion on X and typography for web design.19:41 Using V Max for flexible layout design.23:44 Transitioned from limited to abundant font options.26:03 Clarity in web design and font choice.31:34 Underlining now seen as essential in UI.33:10 Some consider using offset in CSS resets.37:15 Variable fonts allow for greater design control.42:22 HTML tags can be forgotten in web design.44:15 Safari-only feature for hanging punctuation in quotes.47:48 New languages make coding easier, improve display.50:03 Indefinite break, be back with episode 12.

In this episode of No Script Show, Nathan Wrigley and David Waumsley delve into the intricate world of web typography and its evolution. From historical practices to modern advancements, they uncover the elements that shape today's web design.- Transition from pixels to rems and its impact on accessibility- Exploring new features in web typography like font loading and background clipping- Importance of fluid typography and tools like Utopia CSS generator- Challenges and beauty of typography for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean characters- Benefits of chromatic fonts, CSS columns, and underused HTML tags like kbd and wbrTimestamps:00:00 Web design historically overlooked readability and formatting.03:40 Fascinated by typography, but career path chosen.06:34 Web design: Typography shifts in responsive web.09:59 REMS, viewport units, fluid typography revolutionize design.14:13 Fluid typography adapts, but has limitations with zoom.18:17 Discussion on X and typography for web design.19:41 Using V Max for flexible layout design.23:44 Transitioned from limited to abundant font options.26:03 Clarity in web design and font choice.31:34 Underlining now seen as essential in UI.33:10 Some consider using offset in CSS resets.37:15 Variable fonts allow for greater design control.42:22 HTML tags can be forgotten in web design.44:15 Safari-only feature for hanging punctuation in quotes.47:48 New languages make coding easier, improve display.50:03 Indefinite break, be back with episode 12.

Ep12. How web typography has evolved

Welcome to the no script show about modern web design where we look at what we can build today with minimal software and skills.Today we are talking about web images. We’ll cover technological changes such as new optimised formats and CSS properties.And talk about the challenges of creating a fast and eco-friendly experience whilst also trying to make visually attractive designs for devices that range from wrist watches to 4k TV screens. ﻿In this episode of No Script Show, hosts David Waumsley and Nathan Wrigley dive into the latest advancements in web images and their impact on design, performance, and the environment. Discover the essential tools and techniques for optimising your web visuals in today’s digital landscape. - Explore new CSS properties like object fit, aspect ratio, and filters to enhance responsive web design.- Understand the importance of image optimisation with WordPress features for alt tags and the use of "loading=lazy" for improved loading times.- Learn about the "picture" tag and "source set" for effective art direction and device-specific imagery.- Discussion on the pros and cons of using HTML tags vs. CSS for background images, especially in responsive design contexts.- Delve into the latest image formats such as WebP and AVIF, and their role in modern web development. Timestamps:00:00 Struggling with web image complexity and lag.06:17 Some generator colours work best with black.07:09 CSS features for clipping, masking, and filtering.12:02 Debating image use in HTML and CSS.14:50 WordPress CMS made adding alt tags effortless.19:32 Picture tag allows for adaptable image selection.21:48 Struggle with image cropping and coding dilemmas.24:56 Exciting technology, but hindered by third-party solution.28:12 Google promoting WebP, SVG v2 from 2018.32:45 Images can drive powerful messages if relevant.36:31 Questioning use of stock images in medicine.37:33 Web development trends and tools discussed, worthwhile.

Welcome to the no script show about modern web design where we look at what we can build today with minimal software and skills.Today we are talking about web images. We’ll cover technological changes such as new optimised formats and CSS properties.And talk about the challenges of creating a fast and eco-friendly experience whilst also trying to make visually attractive designs for devices that range from wrist watches to 4k TV screens.﻿In this episode of No Script Show, hosts David Waumsley and Nathan Wrigley dive into the latest advancements in web images and their impact on design, performance, and the environment. Discover the essential tools and techniques for optimising your web visuals in today’s digital landscape.- Explore new CSS properties like object fit, aspect ratio, and filters to enhance responsive web design.- Understand the importance of image optimisation with WordPress features for alt tags and the use of "loading=lazy" for improved loading times.- Learn about the "picture" tag and "source set" for effective art direction and device-specific imagery.- Discussion on the pros and cons of using HTML tags vs. CSS for background images, especially in responsive design contexts.- Delve into the latest image formats such as WebP and AVIF, and their role in modern web development.Timestamps:00:00 Struggling with web image complexity and lag.06:17 Some generator colours work best with black.07:09 CSS features for clipping, masking, and filtering.12:02 Debating image use in HTML and CSS.14:50 WordPress CMS made adding alt tags effortless.19:32 Picture tag allows for adaptable image selection.21:48 Struggle with image cropping and coding dilemmas.24:56 Exciting technology, but hindered by third-party solution.28:12 Google promoting WebP, SVG v2 from 2018.32:45 Images can drive powerful messages if relevant.36:31 Questioning use of stock images in medicine.37:33 Web development trends and tools discussed, worthwhile.

Ep11. What’s new in web images. Are they worth a thousand words?

A show for people who build websites. A podcast on modern frontend web design where we look at what we can build today with minimal dependencies and skills. We're building this website as part of the show.

A show for people who build websites. A podcast on modern frontend web design where we look at what we can build today with minimal dependencies and skills. We're building this website as part of the show.

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No Script Show

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