The internet as we know it is a seamless blend of design and coding skills. While the visual elements like layout, colours and imagery contribute to the aesthetic appeal and user experience, the underlying code is what truly powers websites and web applications. Without coding, there would be no interactivity, no dynamic content and no complex features that we often take for granted today.
How coding drives the internet
Coding serves as the building blocks of the web, handling everything from simple tasks like styling text with HTML and CSS to more complex operations like processing data with JavaScript, Python or PHP. Among these coding languages is XML (eXtensible Markup Language), which plays a crucial role in the way data is structured, stored and transported online.
The role and history of XML
XML was created in the late 1990s by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) as a simplified version of Standard Generalized Markup Language (SGML). The goal was to develop a universal language that could be used to store and transport data in a format that was both human-readable and machine-readable. XML is now a widely used markup language in web development, playing a key role in data interchange between systems, configuration files and even in defining web content through feeds like RSS.
In the world of web development, XML is used extensively for a variety of applications, including data exchange between servers and clients, website sitemaps for search engine optimisation (SEO) and as a format for many APIs that deliver data over the internet. Its ability to structure data in a standardised format makes it invaluable in web services and applications where consistent data formatting is crucial.
How is XML used online?
XML, although not typically visible to the average user, is a backbone element in many web-based applications. It acts as a bridge between different systems, enabling seamless data exchange and providing a structured way to store and share information. Here are some of the most common uses of XML in web development:
- Data Exchange in APIs: XML is frequently used in APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for data exchange. Many web services use XML to send data between the client and server because of its standardised structure and readability.
- RSS Feeds: RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds use XML to distribute content from websites, such as news articles or blog posts. This allows users to subscribe to updates and receive new content directly in their feed readers.
- Sitemaps: XML sitemaps are essential for SEO as they help search engines like Google understand the structure of a website and index its pages more efficiently.
- Configuration Files: Many software applications use XML for configuration settings. The structured format allows easy parsing and reading of configuration options, which can be modified without affecting the main application code.
- Data Storage: XML is used to store data in a structured format. This is especially useful when transferring data between different systems or applications, as it maintains data integrity and ensures consistency.
- SOAP Web Services: XML is the basis for SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) web services, which allow applications to communicate over the internet regardless of the underlying platforms or programming languages used.
- Custom Markup Languages: XML allows developers to create custom markup languages tailored to specific needs. For instance, XHTML is a version of HTML that adheres to XML’s stricter syntax rules, providing a more robust framework for web development.
Most sites use XML to some degree
No matter the size or type of website, most use a combination of programming languages and technologies, including XML. From massive e-commerce sites like Amazon to small blogs hosted on WordPress, XML plays a role in various backend operations.
For example, WordPress sites use XML in their sitemaps to help search engines crawl and index pages. Additionally, plugins and themes may utilise XML files for configuration settings or data exchange. Even simpler DIY website builders often incorporate XML behind the scenes to handle data, ensuring the site functions smoothly.
Developing XML – should you use a professional firm?
Given the complexity and potential issues that can arise when working with XML and other coding languages, it’s often a good idea to work with professional web developers who have a solid understanding of these technologies. While DIY web building tools like Wix and Squarespace offer user-friendly interfaces, they may not always provide the flexibility or advanced features that coding directly with XML and other languages can offer.
Design and code working in harmony
Web design is an ever-evolving field, with new standards, tools and techniques being developed all the time. While design elements are important for creating an appealing visual experience, the underlying code is what truly drives the functionality of a website. Languages like XML are at the forefront of web development, providing the necessary structure and data exchange capabilities that make modern websites and web applications possible.
XML, in particular, plays a crucial role in the way data is organised, transferred and displayed on the internet. Its flexibility and readability have made it a standard choice for many different applications, from APIs and web services to sitemaps and RSS feeds. As the internet continues to grow and evolve, so too will the languages and technologies that underpin it, ensuring that websites become more dynamic, responsive and user-friendly.
Final thoughts
Looking ahead, the integration of XML with other emerging web technologies will continue to enhance the functionality and interactivity of the web. As new standards are developed and adopted, XML will likely remain a core component of the web development landscape, providing a reliable and versatile solution for data handling across the internet.
