"Talk is cheap. Show me the code." Linus Torvalds

What Is The JavaScript Taste Test?

The JavaScript Taste Test was created with the goal to bring passionate developers together to try out new technology they normally would not have tried. JavaScript and HTML5 makes it easier than ever to write applications that can be deployed to an ever expanding range of targets. Our goal is to create a fun environment for people to try new things with JavaScript and HTML5 and offer honest feedback as the event unfolds.

What We Liked About Writing Windows 8 Applications in HTML5 and JavaScript

To be honest, we were completely skeptical that you could write a Windows 8 application in JUST HTML5 and JavaScript. We are happy to report that this is not just a clever Microsoft marketing spin. Most of us were completely caught off guard at how easy it was to go form zero to productive in a very short time. It was also really neat that there really wasn't a learning curve around getting the applications built. We were just doing what we have been doing for a long time.

In summary, we liked writing the apps!

What Needs Works Around Writing Windows 8 Applications in HTML5 and JavaScript

Deploying your application was a bit tricky and there was some frustration around this. The one thing that seem to trip up a lot of people was the encoding around third party JavaScript files. We had to jump through some hoops and save them a special way. It would have been MUCH easier if Visual Studio would have just done this for us.

Getting an application approved is ultimately what proved to be the hardest part. We got so caught up into writing and deploying apps that we missed some easy things that would have greatly increased the chances of having our applications approved.

We feel that in the future it may make sense to sequence a follow up event so that developers get the support they need going forward. Newly engaged developers are a really valuable thing and it is important to make sure they stay engaged by facilitating their forward momentum.

Who Was At The JavaScript Taste Test?

"Prior to the JavaScript Taste Test, I had zero desire to build Windows 8 apps. After digging in and having 3 apps in the app store, I couldn't be more bullish on the idea of using HTML5 and JavaScript to build Windows 8 apps. Lukas and Aaron, through the JavaScript Taste Test, and Microsoft, by giving HTML/JS devs mad love, have really opened my eyes and financial possibilities. I'm grateful."
John C. Bland II

The Organizers