3.18 Avoid using deprecated, proprietary, or outdated code

Web Development

Stick to the latest version of language specifications when coding unless you have a documented need to do otherwise.

Criteria

• Preferred code: Machine-testable
  Avoid using deprecated, proprietary, or outdated formats and web standards. Always adopt up-to-date, widely recognized standards. Only use deprecated, proprietary, or outdated code where this is required to meet a documented customer need and if there is a justifiable benefit that cannot otherwise be met. Justifiable reasons could include compatibility with essential legacy systems and/or hardware, accessibility, or emissions reduction. Use polyfills only when necessary, and regularly audit code to see if they can be removedRelated Resources
  • Avoid serving legacy JavaScript to modern browsers
  • Deprecated HTML elements (and what to use instead)
  • DevOps tech: Code maintainability
  • GPF – General Policy Framework (PDF) – 1.9 – Strategy (Interoperable Technologies)
  • GPF – General Policy Framework (PDF) – 2.9 – Specifications (Off-The-Shelf Components)
  • GPF – General Policy Framework (PDF) – 4.5 – UX and UI (Native Components)
  • GR491 – 1-5005 – Proven Development Standards
  • HTML5 Security Cheat Sheet
  • JSON vs XML: which one is faster and more efficient?
  • Maintainability Guide
  • marquee elements are deprecated and must not be used
  • The Carbon Impact of Web Standards (PDF)
  • The Compact Guide to Web Maintainability: 200 Tips and Resources
  • The history of deprecated and changed HTML tags
  • The Neverending Story
  • Thou Shalt Not Depend on Me (PDF)
  • Use JSON for data exchange
  • Website Maintenance Tips for Front-End Developers
  • Why Do Some HTML Elements Become Deprecated?

Benefits

• Accessibility
  Using modern web standards helps to ensure better support in assistive technologies.
• Environment
  Avoiding deprecated standards ensures your code is optimized for and supported by modern browsers, ensuring full functionality and a smooth experience. This helps to reduce browsing time and associated energy use.
• Performance
  Moving on from deprecated or less efficient standards increases the longevity of your digital product or service and reduces the need for a carbon-intensive redesign.
• Security
  Keeping up with modern standards reduces the risk of security exploits.

GRI

• Materials: Low
• Energy: Low
• Water: Low
• Emissions: Low

View the Guideline

Tags

AccessibilityCompatibilityPerformanceHTMLCSSJavaScript