Script libraries and server-side vs client-side scripting...

[worstcritic]

Hello all...

I'm wondering where I can find code for various components I'd like to incorporate into my site. I'm building a finance site and need things like mortgage calculators, bar charts, pie charts, etc. I have a computer science background, but would prefer it if I didn't have to reinvent the wheel.

Also, what are everyone's thoughts on client-side scripting? I suppose the disadvantage is that some clients may not support scripting. What about server-side scripting? Some tips to the advantages/disdvantages of each would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

-Chad

[jonesre]

Hi Chad,

Now that the average CPU is running well above 2GHz, the pros & cons of client vs server side scripting are largely subjective, and based on one's experience and comfort zone.

I'm more comfortable using server side scripts (mostly php), and am not in a position to make disparaging remarks about client side scripts.

Regardless of your preference, with the introduction of CSS as a layout control mechanism, you can insure that relevant content is positioned above any scripts you may have on the page.

Scripts are available for free all over the net, so as you look, when you find a gem, keep the site address handy. As far as repositories, try these:

www.hotscripts.com (bills itself as "The net's largest PHP, CGI, Perl, JavaScript and ASP script collection and resource web portal")

www.sourceforge.net (a huge selection of open-source software, from applications to smaller scripts. If you can't find what you need at hotscripts, check here)

I'm sure there are thousands of others.

Have fun,

Ron Jones
Alpharetta, GA

[Will]

My main bugbear with client-side scripting is that not every visitor is running a compatible client.

With server-side scripting, you know what the host will be.

Client-side scripting also means additional code. This could have a negative SEO effect as the actual content becomes diluted.

However, things such mortgage calculators with no real content of their own nor any real need to be server based are more suited to the client environment.

As for finding existing examples... Google is your friend.