web page editing tools compared

List assembled by Blake Nancarrow (blaken@computer-ease.com) of Computer Ease for the Computer Trainers Network (CTN) on 04 May 2000.

introduction
definitions
properties
development speed
learning curve
mobility
HTML knowledge
code size
code quality
spelling checking
site editing
smart transfers
special effects
compatibility
tool cost
overall cost
sites
colophon
X X X

 

 XXX Since text editors are ubiquitous, a mobile web developer using Notepad or SimpleText can work anywhere, on any computer. Minimal tools required. If using popular freeware or shareware, these tools can be downloaded to the particular computer as needed.

In the case of HTML editors and authoring tools, a developer cannot easily work in different locations. Not unless they carry the software or perhaps a little (expensive) laptop around.

Typically, a developer will work off-line on a local copy of the web site. If this is sitting on a "master" or, say, "home" computer, it ties the developer to this machine. If the machine is mobile not a problem; if the machine is not, file reconciliation must be performed carefully.