On the 8. October 2012 something historically happened… W3C, in collaboration with Adobe, Facebook, Google, HP, Microsoft, Mozilla, Nokia, Opera, and others, announced the alpha release of Web Platform Docs (docs.webplatform.org), a new community-driven site that aims to become a comprehensive and authoritative source for web developer documentation.
In the past, developers who use HTML5, CSS and other technologies of the Open Web Platform have had to consult multiple sites to understand how to use these technologies in a way that works across browsers, operating systems and devices. This was time-consuming and in many cases increased development costs.
With Web Platform Docs, the vision is that web professionals will save time and resources by consulting a single site for current, cross-browser and cross-device coding best practices, including:
- How to use each feature of the Open Web Platform, with syntax and examples;
- The interoperability of various technologies across platforms and devices;
- The standardization status of each technology specification;
- The stability and implementation status of features.
The project is implemented as a Wiki, which means that anyone can contribute content to Web Platform Docs. The organizations mentioned above – collectively known as the “stewards” – have launched this new site with initial documents contributed as raw material for the community to shape. The W3C will serve as the site’s convener. As the Open Web Platform evolves, the entire community, including the original stewards and new stewards, will help maintain and improve the content. All materials on the site will be freely available and licensed to foster sharing and reuse.
“People in the web community — including browser makers, authoring tool makers, and leading edge developers and designers — have tremendous experience and practical knowledge about the web,” said Tim Berners-Lee, W3C Director. “Web Platform Docs is an ambitious project where all of us who are passionate about the web can share knowledge and help one another.”
The W3C and the stewards envision webplatform.org as the home of future collaboration with developers and designers. Those interested in contributing to this effort as a steward or as an editor can visit docs.webplatform.org
