Questions & Answers

Q1. Describe the difference between an XML Sitemap and a HTML Sitemap. List the benefits and disadvantages of using each.

Answer:

An XML sitemap is a machine-readable file designed for search engines, listing website URLs and metadata like update frequency and priority. It allows effective crawling and indexing, which is advantageous for search engine optimization. However, it is not user-friendly and indexing is not guaranteed. On the other hand, an HTML sitemap is a human-readable webpage catering to users by providing a structured list of site pages, enhancing navigation and accessibility. It provides more internal connections and enhances user experience. Its SEO impact is limited compared to XML sitemaps. HTML sitemaps are very helpful for small websites, but larger websites often find it difficult to maintain them. Combining both sitemap types can optimize search engine visibility and user experience effectively.

Q2. Evaluate three IDE’s (Integrated development environments) and provide a brief summary on the positive and negative aspects of each. Also, in your own words include how it would suit an entry level trainee code developer.

Answer:

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) stands out for its lightweight nature and extensive customization options. It has an abundance of extensions that cater to many programming languages and development requirements and has a thriving community. Its IntelliSense feature boosts developer productivity by offering intelligent code recommendations, error checks, and auto-completion. Furthermore, built-in Git integration saves the effort for collaboration and version control. Additionally, it may lack certain advanced features found in more comprehensive IDEs, making it best suited for tasks that don't demand extensive tooling. Visual Studio Code is an ideal choice for entry-level trainee code developers due to its user-friendly interface and active community support. It provides a well-rounded environment for beginners to learn and practice coding effectively due to its integrated debugging tools, version control integration, and cross-platform compatibility. Even on less powerful PCs, VS Code performs without a hitch because of its lightweight design.

Atom.io is an IDE that is a hackable text editor that is commonly used by web designers and covers many aspects of coding, from software scripting to web development. The advantages of atom include its user-friendly and accessible text editor. Atom also enables the installation and usage of packages to increase and improve the editor's quality and add more features, such as remote FTP, which enables users to edit their live websites. The drawbacks of atom include its impact on computer speed, namely how much RAM is utilized, and the possibility of unstable plugins, with a malfunctioning plugin leading to the loss of work. Atom's extensive application range and ability to quickly and easily connect to live websites to change and enhance them make it ideal for entry-level trainees.

Eclipse is a well-known open-source IDE that supports a variety of programming languages and frameworks through plugins. It is noted for its versatility. Its feature set includes integrated tools for debugging, version control, and user interface design. Although there may be a slight learning curve, Eclipse is useful for aspiring code writers as it exposes them to a variety of settings and programming languages, promoting the development of all their skills. The vibrant Eclipse community guarantees regular updates, tools, and help, enabling a welcoming learning environment for beginners to gradually advance their coding skills.

Q3.Provide a brief history on web browser development and the issues encountered by web developers, specifically, the adherence to web standards.

Answer:

Since the World Wide Web's first release, there has been a considerable advancement in web browser technology. In the 1990s, early browsers like Netscape Navigator and Mosaic set the standard for web browsing. There was fragmentation and non-standard features as a result of the "browser wars" between Netscape and Microsoft's Internet Explorer. This hampered consistent web experiences and caused compatibility problems.

The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) was established in 1994 to create web standards, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. However, browser fragmentation remained as a result of varied standard implementation by vendors. Older browsers with vendor-specific functionality presented difficulties. Testing, upkeep, and optimization for many browsers were difficult for developers, which raised complexity and cost.

Major browser companies have increased their commitment to following web standards in recent years, which has improved cross-browser compatibility. Modern procedures stress standard compliance, and tools like caniuse.com help developers. Although there are still issues, organizations and manufacturers are gradually improving adherence to web standards, which is helping to create a more stable and cohesive environment for web development.

Q4.What are website testing methodologies? Your answer MUST cover browser compatibility, and website functionality.

Answer:

Methodologies for website testing include techniques for ensuring the quality of websites. Testing for browser compatibility addresses layout, aesthetic, and functional inconsistencies to ensure consistent performance across a range of browsers and devices. Cross-browser testing, device testing, and testing for responsive design are techniques. Testing a website's functionality ensures that its features, forms, navigation, and user interactions all work as intended. This involves usability and functional regression testing, UI and UX testing, and unit and integration testing. Together, these approaches make sure that users have a seamless experience, maximize user pleasure, and lessen problems brought on by browser differences and functional flaws. For a dependable, user-friendly website to be delivered across numerous platforms, they are essential.

Q5. What are the endorsed requirements of accessibility for all NT Government webpages?

Answer:

The Web Accessibility National Transition Strategy (NTS) created by the Australian Government and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.0 (WCAG 2.0) have been embraced by the Northern Territory Government. The main goal is to have all NTG websites and web content fully compliant with WCAG 2.0 Level AA requirements. The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) developed the WCAG 2.0, which outlines recommendations for improving the accessibility of web content for people with impairments. The NTG's support for these principles demonstrates their dedication to making sure that their digital platforms are comprehensive and accessible, allowing everyone, including people with disabilities, to use their online services and information in an efficient manner.

Q6. How do you think it’s best to organise all the assets used for a specific webpage? Think locally on your computer AND within the root folder of the website.

Answer:

I've learned the importance of organizing webpage materials by creating a central project folder as a beginner. Images, styles, and scripts are handled by separate subfolders inside. The main directory contains the primary HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files, while the corresponding subfolders house the supplementary materials. It is essential to use short, consistent names and relative paths when linking assets. Optimized versions are located in the "build" folder, and a simple readme describes how to set everything up. The strategy completes with periodic cleanups and regular cloud backups, optimizing my workflow for creating websites.