Friday, May 30, 2014

Validate Form Inputs Easily On Any Browser With Validatr

Dealing with forms on the Web can be real interesting. You can do a lot of customisation in design, on the label and even on the authentication. With a lot of new features available in HTML5, Jay Morrow created Validatr which rely on the new HTML5 input attributes to perform easy and automatic form validation.

Validatr is a cross-browser free jQuery plugin. It will automatically wrap the form border in red if the user inputs an invalid value. It also can do lot of input validation like email, number, url, range, color inputs and date.

Custom error messages are also available with various choices using HTML5 data attributes. You may customize the error message element with your own CSS, and the plugin has some pretty good CSS styles.

Basic Guide

To use Validatr, Include the latest jQuery and also the Validatr script in your project.


  <script src="http://code.jquery.com/jquery-latest.min.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
  <script src="js/validatr.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
  

Then call the plugin with the following snippet:


  <script>
  jQuery(function ($) {
      $('form').validatr(); 
  });
  </script>
  

The plugin will recognize the form element to apply changes.

HTML Markup

As mentioned, Validatr utilizes the input element to work. The element is wrapped inside the form tag. The input element will handle all different form types and settings using HTML5 data-attribute.

For example, when you want to create number form, just add type="number" into the input and some additional requirements e.g. limiting the min and max number. If the users are not allowed to leave the form blank, just add the required attribute.

The following is a basic implementation example:


  <form action="./">
      <label for="number">Number</label> 
      <div>
          <input type="number" id='number' step=2 min=1 max=11 name="number" required>
          <input type="submit" value="Submit">
      </div>
  </form>
  

The step attribute is used for value increments when the user clicks the increase or decrease arrow in the form, starting within the defined min number or 0. If the value is set to “0″, this means it uses default increment or increased only one point (the value must be a positive number).

And here’s the result when a user inputs an invalid value or out of range number. Our example uses 2 for the step which means starting from 1, the only numbers that are valid, have an increment of 2, that is: 3, 5, 7 and so on. The max value is 11.

For a complete list of other input types and attribute documentation, please head over to the Validatr page.

A Guide To Essential Tumblr Etiquette: Do’s & Don’ts

Tumblr is more than just another social network site â€" it’s a community. Despite the diversity in community interests, all these communities function on the same set of accepted albeit unofficial etiquette on Tumblr. Certain rules govern these practices, and although they’re not official, things can get nasty if not followed.

tumblr

As part of a community, you would want to get along with everyone else and would normally try not to get on people’s nerves. If you need help in this department, here’s an etiquette guide to Tumblr that will help you enjoy your experience and feel a sense of belonging (which is what you’re after, right?).

Let’s take a look at the reblogging, tagging and social ettiquete of Tumblr.

Reblogging Etiquette

Reblogging is what Tumblr is all about. Users reblog to share posts with others â€" it works like the retweet function on Twitter. Everyone reblogs on Tumblr. Obsessively. There are accounts that only reblog posts from others, without posting an original piece of their own, which is fine, but do bear in mind these 4 do’s and don’ts.

reblog

1. Do Reblog But Don’t Repost

Whenever you come across a post you’d like to share on your Tumblr blog, reblog it instead of reposting it.

By reblogging, you credit the original author of the post. When you repost, you give the impression that you are the original poster, which isn’t true. In fact, this is tantamount to stealing another person’s work. And anyways, it’s also easier to reblog than to repost as it just takes one button.

2. Don’t Alter Posts

Another reason to reblog is that the original poster may have written something to describe the post. It is thus rude to remove the author’s comments.

It is also common for users to post from external sources like fan art from Deviantart. They will credit the artist accordingly by providing a link to the original in the comments. Removing that credit is equivalent to not giving credit where credit is due. Also, people will continuously bug you for the origin of the material.

3. Don’t Delete Other Comments

You will come across Tumblr posts that carry user comments, which you might want to consider removing before a reblog. Don’t.

Once in a while, users respond to a post by adding in extra information in a comment. Sometimes reblogs happen because of the comments. If you still insist on not including the comments, you can go to the original post and reblog it from there.

4. Don’t Reblog Things That You Hate

Suppose that you’re not a fan of BBC’s Sherlock TV Series and someone on your dashboard happens to post a scene from it, don’t reblog it just to rant about it.

Remember, people come to Tumblr to find and share things they love. They will not appreciate it when you rant about how terrible their interest is. Just continue on your merry way reblogging things that you like, and ignoring things that you hate.

Tagging Etiquette

Hashtagging on Tumblr is more commonly known as tagging. Tags play a big part in the Tumblr universe. It allows users to track posts, spread information and organize their blog contents. While their purpose seems to be similar to how they are used on other social media sites, on Tumblr, the usage of tags are on a different level.

tagging

1. Don’t Tag Your Hate

This is somewhat similar to “Don’t reblog your hate” but applied to your own post. If you really hate Games of Thrones, that’s fine. You are entitled to your opinion but don’t tag the post with #game of thrones or any of its related tags. As mentioned, people track tags because they love something; they care little to nothing about your rants as your hate does not contribute to the fandom.

2. You Should Tag Spoilers

If you follow new episodes of TV shows and like to blog about it the moment you finish watching it, do everyone a favor and tag it #spoilers. As much as you like to post spoilers, I doubt you would like it if others spoil a show for you before it is even shown where you live.

It is thus common courtesy to tag your post as #spoilers for your followers. This makes it easier for them to block specific posts. You can also let your followers know in advance and tell them the tag you’ll be using.

3. Tag Triggers And NSFW

Tumblr has a policy about posting sensitive issues but it acknowledges that this differs from person to person. That said, some things do bring out painful memories for certain people while other things also just Not Safe For Work (NSFW).

By tagging your posts with #trigger warning, you’ll help those who are a little bit sensitive to block posts that may cause them discomfort. Tagging #NSFW will help your followers keep their jobs and for the rest of us to treat your Tumblr posts accordingly.

4. Comment With Tags

There are differing schools of thought on why you must post your comments in the tags. The origins of these standards are sketchy and the rules vague.

The basic premise however is to put reaction comments (also fangirling/fanboying) in tags. Examples include #lol #omg #all my feels #my otp #this. People prefer comments in the text section to add to the post like refutations to a statement as they feel that it adds more to the post. It also makes for neater reblogging.

Social Etiquette

At the end of the day, you are still dealing with people, hence the "social" aspect of a social network. All the rules of etiquette adds up to how your actions affect others, particularly their feelings. Here are a few more do’s and don’ts to help you out.

social

1. User-Friendly Themes

Honestly you can do whatever you want with the look of your blog. However, do take into account that people may check out your blog outside their dashboard. If your blog has music on autoplay, tiled GIFs in the background or neon colours (or perhaps it lacks navigation buttons), then chances are they won’t be sticking around to check out your posts.

2. Don’t Demand A Follow Back

No. Just, no. Even if you have followed their blog and you desperately need friends or followers, do not drop the person a line to ask them to follow you back. There isn’t a popularity contest on who gets the most followers, and basically, it’s like complimenting a random stranger on their fashion sense and telling them to compliment you back.

Talk to people and share interesting stuff on your blog if you want to make friends. If they like you and think you’re worth following back, they will. If they like you but don’t follow back, don’t take it personally. No one is entitled to follow backs.

3. No Anon Hate

The easiest way to talk to someone directly is through the ask box. If a user has enabled the ask box function on their blog, you can ask a question, comment or say hello to them. There is also an option in some ask boxes to remain anonymous.

Please do not use this function to insult, bully or troll a person, although it is very easy to do so. You may think you’re protected by the cloud of anonymity but Tumblr users can still find and report you to Tumblr’s admin staff. People have enough problems in real life and they don’t need more online.

4. Respect Others’ Opinion

If you want to have an opinion on the Web, the first thing you need to understand is that others are entitled to their opinion as well. People like, hate, are indifferent to, feel strongly and love wrongly about all sorts of fandom-triggered craziness, and that’s what makes the Web great.

The last thing anyone needs, including you, is some hatemonger cramming opinions down one’s throat. The best way to make sure that never happens if to start with yourself: respect the opinions of others as you would want them to respect yours.

5. Credit Your Source

Perhaps you came across something outside of Tumblr that you want to share on your blog. If it’s not yours, provide a link back to the source. Not crediting your source gives the wrong impression that you’re stealing someone else’s work. FYI Google, 9gag, weheartit.com and your computer folder are not sources.

If you don’t remember the source, put a disclaimer or don’t post it up at all. Also if you have posted something up, and the creator finds it then asks you to take down their work, irregardless of credit given or not, please do so. They have their reasons and if there is honor among thieves, there can be honor among Tumblr users â€" let’s make that happen.

Conclusion

Etiquette, in a sense, goes both ways. While common etiquette breach doesn’t warrant a report, you can call out on people who don’t adhere to the more serious ones, like posting what does not belong to them. Haters can be blocked and mean people unfollowed. You can even disable the anonymous option in ask.

If you are unsure about the right step to take, you can always ask. Tumblr users are generally helpful and aren’t shy to guide you. It’s okay to make a mistake here or two. What is not okay is stirring up trouble when there is none. Tumblr is a place to play out your interests, so if you ever feel threatened or harrassed by someone, remember that you can always report them.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

20 Animated And Interactive Infographics You Have To See

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Everyone loves infographics, sure, but static infographics are a bit old hat now. With so many infographics out there, it’s easy to overlook a lot of infographics with good content just because they just don’t stand out from the rest of the pack. And, if you’re a designer, you’ve probably racked your brains trying to figure out how to attract viewers and create infographics that do stand out from the rest.

Well, one of the ways you can do that is with animated infographics.

Evolution Of Insight

Animated and interactive infographics, especially those designed using HTML5, are quite possibly the future of infographics. Animated infographics engage with viewers better and can help add interest to topics that might otherwise come across as mundane.

Here’s a list of 20 animated and interactive infographics that you can enjoy and find some inspiration from. Do click into the links to get to the full version of the infographics, complete with the animation.

The Complete History Of Social Media. This infographic uses Flash to show you a quick overview of the history of social media. [Visit page]

The Complete History Of Social Media

Hungry Tech Giants. This interactive infographic is a sortable timeline of acquisitions from five of the world’s biggest tech companies over the past 15 years. [Visit page]

Hungry Tech Giants

HTML5 & CSS3 Readiness. This interactive infographic is a breakdown of HTML5 and CSS3 support in all the major web browsers up to 2013. [Visit page]

HTML5 & CSS3 Readiness

The Evolution Of The Web. This infographic uses SVG elements, the timeline of browsers and technologies, as well as the growth of the Internet itself. [Visit page]

The Evolution Of The Web

Plugging In: How Small Businesses Use Technology. This interactive infographic harnesses HTML5 to show how small businessses are harnessing technology to improve productivity. [Visit page]

Plugging In: How Small Businesses Use Technology

Web Browsers & Resolutions. This animated infographic uses its animated elements cleverly to show the importance of testing a website with multiple resolutions, browsers, and even operating systems. [Visit page]

Web Browsers & Resolutions

Evolution Of Social Collaboration. This interactive infographic takes you through a quick history and evolution of social collaboration from before the 1960s up to the present day. [Visit page]

Evolution Of Social Collaboration

Evolution Of Insight. This is an interactive infographic that tells the story of market research, from the start of the 20th Century all the way up to the 2000s. [Visit page]

Evolution Of Insight

Evolution Of the Games Console. With its charming vector graphics, this interactive infographic is a good, albeit very quick run through of the history and evolution of video game consoles. [Visit page]

Evolution Of The Games Console

8 Epic Journeys From Console Gaming. This interactive HTML5 infographic features quick overviews of some epic journeys from recent hit console videogames. [Visit page]

8 Epic Journeys From Console Gaming

Retail Security Threats. This animated and interactive infographic takes you through all the typical parts of a retail store where hackers might choose to try and gain access into the network. [Visit page]

Retail Security Threats

Inception. This infographic uses animations to great effect to help explain what happened in the movie ‘Inception’. The minimalist design defintiely helps it achieve this goal. [Visit page]

Inception

Flights Interactive. This infographic is an aviation buff’s dream. Not only is it an interactive world map that tracks all the planes and flight routes in real time, it’s also a presentation on the history of commercial flight. [Visit page]

Flights Interactive

Bond: Licence To Drive. This wonderfully animated, designed and drawn infographic charts the evolution of Bond cars, from the Sunbeam Alpine in ‘Dr. No’ up to the Land Rover Defender in ‘Skyfall’. [Visit page]

Bond: Licence To Drive

World’s Biggest Data Breaches. This interactive infographic is a visualization of all the biggest data breaches since 2004. [Visit page]

World's Biggest Data Breaches

Thirteen Reasons Why Your Brain Craves Infographics. This charmingly animated infographic takes a quick look at why we love infographics so much. [Visit page]

Thirteen Reasons Why Your Brain Craves Infographics

How Search Works. This interactive infographic details how Google search works, from the initial crawling and indexing stages to how they fight spam to ensure the quality of your search results. [Visit page]

How Search Works

Dribbble: What’s It Used For? This interactive HTML5 infographic explains Dribbble, from what it’s used for to some common terms used on the service. [Visit page]

Dribbble: What's It Used For?

How A Flat Panel Display Works. This animated infographic, made in HTML5, dissects a flat screen display to show exactly how one works. [Visit page]

How A Flat Panel Display Works

How A Car Engine Works. This HTML5 animated infographic shows you how a car engine works in brilliant detail. [Visit page]

How A Car Engine Works

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

How To Convert World Cup Match Schedule To Your Time Zone [Quicktip]

Aside from knowing where to watch the next match live, one of the biggest headaches when it comes to following the World Cup is the time zone difference. It is horrible to drag yourself up in the middle of the night only to find out that you have missed the first half (or the whole match!) because you miscalculated the starting time.

Converted Match Times

Things become plenty complicated when there are a lot of matches going on in different cities in different time zones, which is exactly the case with the upcoming World Cup in Brazil. Well FIFA has a solution. Their official match schedule has a handy little feature that will make time zone conversion worries a thing of the past.

Converting World Cup Match Times

FIFA has a complete match schedule on their World Cup page, which you can visit here. This schedule shows you the times and dates of all the matches, from the first group stage match all the way to the finals.

Match Schedule

If you look at the schedule, you’ll see a Change to your time link. It does what it says on the tin, convert all the match times into your time zone, provided that your time zone is set correctly on your computer.

Change To Your Time

Click that and you’ll see all the match times change into the correct time for your time zone.

Note that the dates don’t change though, which means you’re still going to have to manually figure out the date the match is on. Beyond this small niggle though, this might be one of the easiest ways to get the entire match schedule converted to your time zone.

Converted Match Times

Monday, May 26, 2014

30 jQuery Text Effect Libraries You Need To Know

Ever wished you have a huge library of jQuery text effects that you can easily whip one to create a beautiful and strong landing page? Well, you came to the right place! Instead of spending several minutes to hours experimenting on your CSS, or trying to find the perfect color or angle and shape of that text, why not use these jQuery text effects?

Listed here are 30 jQuery text effects that you can use to style, animate, and basically bend the rules of text on the web without even touching a single line of CSS. Why reinvent the wheel when there’s already hundreds of text effects out there that get the job done?

1. Arctext.js [Visit page - Demo - Download]

2. Animated Opening Type [Visit page - Demo - Download]

3. Animated text and icon menu with jQuery [Visit page - Demo - Download]

4. HatchShow [Visit page - Demo]

5. JqIsoText [Visit page - Demo - Download]

6. Kern.js [Visit page - Demo - Download]

7. Kerning.js [Visit page - Demo - Download]

8. CSS3 3D text plugin for jQuery [Visit page - Demo - Download]

9. Neon [Visit page - Download]

10. Codename Rainbows [Visit page - Demo - Download]

11. Simple Text Rotator [Visit page - Demo - Download]

12. Simple text spinning effect with jQuery [Visit page - Demo - Download]

13. SlabText [Visit page - Demo - Download]

14. Spotlight [Visit page - Demo - Download]

15. TextFX2 [Visit page - Demo - Download]

16. Textify [Visit page - Demo - Download]

17. Text with moving background [Visit page - Demo]

18. JQuery TickerType plugin [Visit page - Demo - Download]

19. TextFx [Visit page - Demo - Download]

20. Wave text effect [Visit page - Demo - Download]

21. Wide text jQuery plugin [Visit page - Demo - Download]

22. Textillat [Visit page - Demo - Download]

23. Bacon [Visit page - Demo - Download]

24. Lettering.js [Visit page - Demo - Download]

25. Shuffle Letters Effect [Visit page - Demo - Download]

26. FitText [Visit page - Demo - Download]

27. Textualizer [Visit page - Demo - Download]

28. LetterFX [Visit page - Demo - Download]

29. Curved Text [Visit page - Download]

30. Capital Letter [Visit page - Demo - Download]