Apr 27 2009
AJAX Applications, Part 1
Most of the high-profile AJAX web applications are commercial and run on corporate servers like Google Maps or Flickr. We’re going to start with some lesser-know solutions that are Open Source, and can be hosted on your own PHP/MySQL enabled server.
Since we’re diving into a new subject, I’m going to take a couple lines in explanation. AJAX or Asynchronous JavaScript and XML is a programming method that allows interactive interfaces in web applications. What? You can now drag-and drop and change options without reloading a webpage.
This week’s picks are great examples of this technology that enhance your web experience and replace some of your desktop applications.
Forget Bloglines. You can run a feed reader with the convenience of web-based access, but the quick interface of a desktop application for free (of course).
Gregarius retrieves your updated feeds, searches them and organizes them with tags. The Open Source PHP application is still in early development, but already supports plugins and theming.
This project offers a sticky note solution, complete with live editing and dragability. This system provides a unique note taking system that is accessible from the web, but quick and easy to edit.
This Open Source project offers a webmail interface to your IMAP email account. Unlike other webmail applications you’re used to(unless you are part of the Yahoo! Mail beta), this one allows you to drag messages to folders and toggle read/unread status instantly.
I know you’ve got the point already, but the implementation of AJAX in this webmail interface again makes it as quick and user-friendly as your desktop mail client. Because the mail is still stored in your IMAP account, RoundCube won’t clog your database with mail either.
This early project gives you an iCal-inspired dragable interface, supports events that span multiple days and reads the iCal .ics format.
Since we’re still in the early days of AJAX evolution, expect these projects to mature – and more to emerge.
