WEB AUTHORING TOOLS AND LANGUAGES USED IN THE CORPORATE WORLD:
BEST "BUYS' OF SELECTED FORTUNE 500 WEBMASTERS WITH IMPLICATIONS
FOR ONLINE EDUCATORS
Dr. Mary Ellen Nourse, University of Idaho <nourse@uidaho.edu>
ABSTRACT
What Web authoring tools, software programs, text editors, and languages are used by business? Do the programs used by Fortune 500 Webmasters parallel those used by online educators? The purpose of this study was to determine the Web authoring tools used by selected Fortune 500 Webmasters and then to identify which of these tools represent "best buys" for online educators. Findings indicated that Dreamweaver, Front Page, and HomeSite warrant attention.
INTRODUCTION
Consider this brief conversation among three professors visiting at the coffee bar during a professional convention:
Professor #1: "I just put my course on the Web this semester. Without "Toolbook," I would have been lost. What did you use to construct your Web site, Merle?"
Professor #2 (Merle): "We use HomeSite at Scenic State University. Some of my colleagues, though, use BBEdit on their own."
Professor #3: "Do either of you two know anything about JavaScript? I'm trying to teach myself how to write applets."
This snippet reveals that we educators have our preferences regarding Web authoring programs, tools, and languages. Do these, however, represent "best buys" for the money invested by our institutions or by ourselves? As is the case with many research studies, this endeavor had a two-fold purpose:
(1) Identification of Web authoring languages, tools, software programs, and text editors used by selected Fortune 500 Webmasters; and
(2) Identification of Web authoring languages, tools, software programs, and text editors representing "best buys" for educators based on information obtained from the selected Fortune 500 Webmasters and from secondary research.
One caveat must be advanced, however: The "best buys" identified in this study represent the views of one person--the researcher. Before massive purchases are made of an identified software program or text editor, readers may wish to obtain demonstration versions.
METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY
Permission was obtained from the Human Subjects Research Committee at the University of Idaho to conduct an original e-mail survey of Fortune 500 Webmasters. (The survey instrument was deemed not to have any harmful physical or psychological impacts on the participants. This may not have been the case for the researcher).
A convenience sample was then selected, based on information at the "Fortune 500 Matching Companies" Web site (Time Inc., 1996). Criteria for inclusion in the study are listed here:
1. Only companies based in the U.S. were considered,
2. Only companies featuring an e-mail link or contact at their Web sites were considered.
Since the researcher had an operating budget of $0.00 for this project, e-mail access to Fortune 500 Webmasters was imperative. Therefore, the selected companies represented a convenience sample.
After selection of the sample, a survey instrument was constructed. Keeping in mind that a survey form that requires more than 10' to complete may not ever reach that stage. Therefore, the survey instrument for this study consisted of two brief questions. A copy of the form appears below.
_________________________________________________________
Dear Webmaster:
As Internet-based business and educational opportunities increase, so too will the necessity for well-designed and effective Web pages. Your answers to the two questions below will be combined with responses from other Fortune 500 Webmasters as part of an original research study being conducted under the auspices of the University of Idaho. Data analysis is scheduled for mid February.
Your input and time will be appreciated very much.
--Dr. Mary Ellen Nourse
Affiliate Assistant Professor
University of Idaho
********************************************************
1. What Web authoring tool(s), software, and/or language(s) was/were
used to construct your Web site? Please check all that apply.
___Active X
___CGI/Perl
___HTML Version 4.0
___HTML (earlier version)
___Java
___JavaScript
___SHTML
___Text editor (Please specify).
___Web authoring software (Please specify)
2. What Web authoring tool(s), software, and/or language(s) do you
expect will be used by your company in 1999-2000? Please check all that apply.
___ActiveX
___CGI/Perl
___HTML Version 4.0
___Java
___JavaScript
___SHTML
___Text editor (Please specify).
___Web authoring software (Please specify).
_______________________________________________________
This instrument was pilot tested in early January, 1999. The test sample consisted of 10 Fortune 500 Webmasters not selected for the actual study. Results from the pilot test indicated that the instrument was understandable, so the survey form subsequently transmitted to 106 Webmasters. A deadline of early February had been stated on the form, which did not seem to affect the Webmasters.
Results of this study are based on data received from the first 20 respondents. Since completed surveys were still being transmitted as of February 18, an update will be provided during the presentation at the Technology in the Community College 1999 nline Conference.
The twenty Fortune 500 companies included in this study are listed below.
• Apple (3 responses from 3 different Webmasters) Aramark
• Boeing Bristol-Myers-Squibb
• Cigna Dana
• Dow Eaton
• General Mills IKON
• Johnson & Johnson Kimberly-Clark
• Kroger Mobil
• NY Life Pacific Bell
• Phillips Petroleum Reliant Energy
• Unocal
• Wal-Mart
Automated responses were obtained from a number of companies not listed above. These generally contained a message that thanked the sender for his/her e-mail message to the company. The response often ended with an invitation to visit the Web site again.
One additional unusable response was received from a disgruntled Fortune 500 Webmaster. This gentleman believed that academic e-mail surveys constituted "spam" and were an abuse of the university computer network. This individual's company specialized in prevention of junk e-mail and spam. (The company has been removed from the study).
DATA ANALYSIS
Results of this study were based on the first 20 responses transmitted by Fortune 500 Webmasters. Frequency counts were determined to be the most appropriate form of data analysis. These appear below for each of the two survey questions.
Question #1: What Web authoring tool(s), software, and/or language(s) was/were used to construct your Web site? Please check all that apply.
Number of Respondents
Tool, Software, Or Using Tool, Software, Or
Language _____Language_______ Percentage
Active X 2 10%
CGI/Perl 14 70%
HTML 4.0 4 20%
HTML (Earlier Version) 15 75%
Java 2 10%
JavaScript 15 75%
SHTML 2 10%
*Text Editor 10 50%
**Web Authoring Tools 19 95%
*Text editors identified by the 20 Webmasters and the number of respondents using each are listed here. Ten respondents indicated use of a text editor. Some Webmasters used more than one text editor, which explains why the numbers below add to more than ten.
Arachnophilia (1)
BBEdit (3)
Homesite (2)
Kedit (1)
Notepad (3)
Programmer's Editor (1)
Textpad (2)
Word (1)
**Web authoring software identified by the 20 Webmasters and the number of respondents utilizing these programs are listed here. Note that some Webmasters used more than one authoring program or tool.
Claris Home Page (2)
Cold Fusion (1)
Dreamweaver (4)
Front Page (12)
Homesite (2)
HTML Assistant Pro (1)
Hot Metal Pro (1)
Interdev (2)
Lotus Domino Notes (1)
The second survey question and responses are delineated below.
Question #2: What Web authoring tool(s), software, and/or language(s) do you expect will be used by your company in 1999-2000? Please check all that apply.
Number of Respondents
Tool, Software, Or Using Tool, Software, Or
Language _____Language_______ Percentage
Active X 7 35%
CGI/Perl 13 65%
HTML 4.0 14 70%
HTML (Earlier Version) 2 10%
Java 12 60%
JavaScript 16 80%
SHTML 5 25%
+Text Editor 9 45%
++Web Authoring Tools 16 80%
+Text editors the Webmasters expect to use this year and the number of respondents planning to use each are listed here. Some Webmasters used more than one text editor, which explains why the numbers below add to more than nine.
Arachnophilia (1)
BBEdit (2)
Homesite (2)
ML (1)
Kedit (1)
Notepad (3)
Programmer's Editor (1)
Textpad (2)
Word (1)
Note that the lone users of Anachrophilia, Kedit, and Programmer's Editor expect to use these software packages again this year.
**Web authoring software the surveyed Webmasters expect to use this year and the number of respondents planning to utilize these programs are listed here. Note that some Webmasters used more than one authoring program or tool.
Adobe/GoLive/Cyberstudio (1)
ASP (2)
Claris Home Page (1)
Cold Fusion (3)
DHTML (1)
Dreamweaver (6)
Flash (1)
Front Page (8)
Homesite (2)
Interdev (2)
Lotus Notes Domino (1)
Macromedia Director (1)
Oracle (1)
Vignette Story Server (1)
XML (1)
Discussion of the data acquired from this study appears in the next section of this report.
DISCUSSION OF THE DATA ANALYSIS
Analysis of the data accumulated for questions 1 and 2 reveal some interesting facts. This section contains a brief discussion of the data presented above.
A number of text editors and Web authoring tools were used by only one survey participant. The lone user of Hot Metal Pro, for example, apparently has decided to use a different Web authoring software program in 1999-2000. Authoring programs not used by the sample Webmasters in 1998-1999 but expected to be utilized this year are Vignette Story Server, Oracle, Macromedia Director, and Flash. DHTML and XML are two languages not included in responses to Question 1 but appearing in feedback for Question 2.
ActiveX users may increase from two to seven of the sampled Webmasters in 1999-2000, based on survey results. Earlier versions of the Hypertext Markup Language will be abandoned in favor of HTML 4.0; only 4 Webmasters used 4.0 in 1998-1999 but 14 plan to use this updated version in 1999-2000.
The number of Webmasters planning to use Web authoring tools decreased. Nineteen individuals used Web authoring tools in 1998-1999, but only 16 plan to utilize these tools in 1999-2000. This may represent a trend toward use of original code, or these numbers may be a fluke. A larger sample might provide more insight into this observation.
In addition to analyzing utilization of various languages, software programs, and tools used by Fortune 500 Webmasters, this study fulfilled a second purpose. Identification of "best buys" in Web authoring programs and text editors constituted the second goal of this research endeavor. To accomplish this goal, secondary data was gathered on selected text editors and Web authoring programs used by the sampled Fortune 500 Webmasters. Results of this secondary research appear below.
Findings and Discussion Related to Text Editors and Web Authoring Programs Used by Selected Fortune 500 Webmasters
As was evident from analysis of the data, each sampled Webmaster seemed to have her/his favorite text editor and/or Web authoring software. However, some programs did have more than one adherent; therefore, this section focuses on the more popular text editors and authoring software/tools.
Text Editors Used by Sample Fortune 500 Webmasters
Three text editors were reviewed: Notepad, HomeSite, and BBEdit.
BBEDIT
Designed primarily for Macintosh afficionados, BBEdit is advertised by Bare Bones as "Software that still doesn't suck" (Bare Bones Software, January, 1999).
Despite this announcement which may have been written by someone with limited language ability, BBEdit is worthy of investigation. CNET provides a brief overview of BBEdit features:
"You get a menu, editing window, a list of open files, and a button bar full of HTML tools. Simply open a new HTML document, and BBEdit presents you with a dialog box with startup options, including a page title, the page's base URL, and <META> tag info." (CNET Services, 1995-1999).
NOTEPAD
One of the most popular features of Notepad is its price: $0.00. This freeware text editor is offered free to Windows 95 users.
Notepad is compatible with HTML 2.0, HTML 3.0, HTML 3.2, and JavaScript. The compatibility may be due to the fact that the user generates original code on the Notepad screen. Help features seem nonexistent, as Notepad does not clutter the computer screen with numerous toolbars and icons. (In fact, Notepad has no toolbars or icons).
Notepad does maintain a support site for users. The URL is www.notepad.org; a guestbook, chat area, e-mail link, and download link. This site is maintained by an anonymous charitable person. (Notepad home page, undated).
HOMESITE
This HTML text editor is allows the user to write "Pure HTML," which is defined as only that code which is necessary for display on a browser. Unlike many other text editors, HomeSite does not feature a WYSIWYG screen. HomeSite does feature
1. Site view,
2. HTML validation,
3. Spell checking,
4. Link verification, and
5. Code sweeping. (Code sweeping allows the developer to apply a predefined set of formatting rules to any page).
Also, HomeSite users can develop cascading style sheets and integrate JavaScript into their Web pages. The JavaScript Wizard provides sequential instructions for those new to JS.
HomeSite retails for $99. An electronic version is available for $89. (Allaire Corp., 1995-1998)
HomeSite, Notepad, and BBEdit are three text editors which selected Fortune 500 Webmasters intend to use in 1999-2000. Examples of Web authoring software identified by survey participants are highlighted in the next section of this research report.
WEB AUTHORING PROGRAMS USED BY SAMPLE FORTUNE 500 WEBMASTERS
Web authoring programs used by at least three Webmasters were researched: frontrunner Microsoft Front Page, Cold Fusion, and Dreamweaver.
DREAMWEAVER
"This Web page looks different when I bring it up in Explorer." For HTML writers who dread comments like this example, Dreamweaver may be a solution.
Three important features of Dreamweaver 2 are
1. Cross-browser Roundtrip HTML,
2. Advanced table editing, and
3. Templates.
Other features of interest to Web authors include
1. "Inspector" which allows the user to view the Web page as well as the source code,
2. Integration with HomeSite 4.0 for Windows and BBEdit 5.0 for Macintosh platforms
3. Format control which allows the Web author to "clean" previously written HTML code, and
4. Site management tools which allow the designer/writer to quickly construct, move, and link pages. (Macromedia, 1995-1999).
A "Features Tour" of Dreamweaver 2.0 is available at www.macromedia.com/software/dreamweaver/productinfo/features for those who enjoy comparison shopping, a matrix comparing features of Dreamweaver 2 against those of competitors can be found at www.macromedia.com/software/dreamweaver/productinfo/matrix/
After examination of the comparison matrix, a potential user might want to download the 30-day trial version. This software can be downloaded from www.macromedia.com/software/dreamweaver/trial during the trial period, an Electronic Software Distribution version of Dreamweaver 2 can be purchased for $269. This version, however, doesn't include BBEdit or HomeSite. (Macromedia, 1995-1999)
COLD FUSION
To appreciate Cold Fusion, one must realize the difference between text-centric and data-centric Web sites. Most Web pages feature text and images (i.e., "text-centric), as compared with a percentage of sites that feature data (i.e., "data-centric"). For those who may have trouble visualizing a data-centered site, as did this researcher, examples can be accessed at the Vscape Web page: www.virtualscape.com/cfdocs/Examples/
Cold Fusion seems to be a combination of authoring tool and Web space rental service. An excerpt from the Vscape home page offers this explanation:
"Virtualscape has provided Cold Fusion hosting since early 1996. The experience we have gained in hosting over 600 Cold Fusion domains (1,800 domains total) has helped us create one of the most stable and affordable Cold Fusion environments anywhere. We understand that hosting a database-centric website is far more difficult than hosting static web pages. For Cold Fusion to operate at peak efficiency, it needs powerful servers and our custom-built machines are up to the task. The latest systems are top of the line Dual Pentium 350 servers with a minimum of 256MB of RAM (some have 512MB where necessary)." (Vscape International, Inc., 1998).
The Cold Fusion Web site contained a plethora of information regarding this product. Examples of Cold Fusion sites, support information, and a product overview are among the links at this site. However, a search of the site revealed no information regarding the cost of Cold Fusion.
MICROSOFT FRONT PAGE
Microsoft Front Page was one of the competitors listed on the Dreamweaver 2 comparison matrix. Front Page does seem to be a front runner among business users.
Features of Microsoft Front Page which make this package attractive to Web authoring neophytes as well as advanced users are
1. WYSIWYG frames construction page,
2. Table editing using the Front Page Editor, and
3. Automatic hypertext maintenance to prevent broken links.
"Microsoft Front Page Bulletin" is a free monthly e-mail newsletter provided as a service to Front Page users and other interested folks. Sample items in the February, 1999, issue include
*"Improving Your Keyword Density"
*"Adding a Search Form to Your Web Page"
*Free Trial: PDG Shopping Cart Component
*Free Trial: Microsoft Photodraw 2000
*Free Trial: Netstudio.com (Microsoft Corporation, February, 1999).
Those who value the ability to experiment with a software add-on or package prior to purchase may appreciate a subscription to the "Bulletin." The interactive Front Page demonstration, accessible via a link at www.microsoft.com/frontpage/, may be helpful in assessing the merits of Front Page.
The full academic version of Microsoft Front Page 98 retails for $69 in the United States. Ordering information can be found at www.microsoft.com/products/prodref/571_pr_ac.htm
RECOMMENDATIONS BASED ON SURVEY AND SECONDARY RESEARCH FINDINGS
The caveat stated at the beginning of this study warrants repetition: These recommendations are based on research conducted by one individual during the months of December, 1998 through February 19, 1999.
Text Editor "Best Buy" of Selected Fortune 500 Webmasters
BBEdit and Notepad both have drawbacks. The former is intended for use on MacIntosh machines, and the latter requires prerequisite knowledge of HTML. For $99, therefore, aspiring Web authors might wish to invest in HomeSite.
Web Authoring Software "Best Buys" of Selected Fortune 500 Webmasters
For the relative minority of Web authors who intend to develop data-centered sites, Cold Fusion may be a bargain. Note the use of "may be"; costs of Cold Fusion could not be located.
For the majority of Web authors who want to construct static pages, Dreamweaver and Front Page appear popular.
IMPLICATIONS FOR ONLINE EDUCATORS
Online educators probably are familiar with popular software programs such as Microsoft Front Page and BBEdit. This study revealed other packages with potential for academic uses, such as Dreamweaver and HomeSite. Online educators may wish to investigate these programs and others listed in the data tables appearing earlier in this report. Programs currently used by business may merit attention from the academic community. Looking beyond the Web tools used on campus may result in discovery of "better buys" in the realms of authoring tools, software programs, and text editors.
RESOURCES
Allaire Corp. (1995-1998). HomeSite home page. [Online]. Available: http://www.allaire.com/products/homesite [February 19, 1999].
Bare Bones Software. (January, 1999). Brand new update: BBEdit 5.0.2 now available! [Online]. Available: http://www.bbedit.com/ [February 15, 1999].
CNET Services. (1995-1999). BBEdit 4.5.1. [Online]. Available: http://builder.com/Authoring/HtmlPro/ss02.html [February 14, 1999].
Macromedia, Inc. (1995-1999). Dreamweaver 2. [Online]. Available at http://www.macromedia.com/dreamweaver/ [February 15, 1999].
Microsoft Corporation. (February 12, 1999). Microsoft Front Page 98. [Online]. Available: http://www.microsoft.com/products/prodref/571_ov/htm [February 15, 1999].
Microsoft Corporation. (February, 1999). Microsoft Front Page bulletin--February edition. [E-mail Newsletter]. Available: MicrosoftFrontPageTeam_006036@news.newswire.microsoft.com
Microsoft Corporation. (February 12, 1999). Front Page home page. [Online]. Available: http://www.microsoft.com/frontpage/ [February 15, 1999].
Microsoft Corporation. (February 12, 1999). Product catalog. [Online]. Available: http://www.microsoft.com/products/prodref/571_pr_ac.htm [February 15, 1999].
Notepad home page. (Undated). [Online]. Available: http://www.notepad.org [February 19, 1999].
Time Inc. (1996). Fortune 500 matching companies. [Online]. Available: http://cgi.pathfinder.com/cgi-bin/fortune/fortune500/ [February 13, 1999].
Vscape International Inc. (1998). Cold Fusion home page. [Online]. Available: http://www.virtualscape.com/
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