Chapter 2. DHTML Essentials

DHTML seems like a curiously old-fashioned term these days, especially within the context of more modern browser facilities such as HTML5 Canvas, SVG, and Flash. However, rather like the tortoise and the hare,^[2] DHTML will always be the more reliable (if slower) contender when the other, more exciting methods are not guaranteed to be available.

^[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tortoise_and_the_Hare

Actually, in many cases you don’t need anything other than DHTML; the use of other methods can often be attributed simply to developer “wants” rather than “needs.” Casual games, image zooms, and many other effects are perfectly feasible without resorting to the “power tools.” Libraries like jQuery can make implementation even easier. A little thought and delicate manipulation of the DOM will ensure that DHTML graphics can move quickly and smoothly.