The Javascript Templating Language is a Java-powered template language that allows users to create dynamic content.
When looking for a templating language for your Java-based web application, you might consider JSTL. Similar to JSP, Velocity and FreeMarker, JSTL uses Javascript for the computational aspects of template expansion, allowing for the full power of Javascript to be used in creating templates. Keep in mind that although the templating language is Javascript, the template expansion will still occur on the server side.
While the idea of using Javascript for template expansion is not new, JSTL seems to be the first library that makes Javascript templating available for Java applications. Here are some key features of JSTL:
- Low learning curve: With JSTL, you won't need to learn a new syntax for programming constructs since it uses Javascript, which many people are already familiar with. The syntax is similar to JSP and is easy to embed in your application.
- No compilation cycle overhead: Unlike JSP, if you make a change in your template code, you'll see its effect immediately on reloading the page, without having to compile to a Java class.
- Compact and fast: JSTL's implementation is composed of only a few classes, making it both compact and fast.
- Versatile: JSTL can be used not just in web applications but in any context where template expansion is needed, such as for sending template-based mass emails from your application. It doesn't require servlets or any other JSDK components.
What sets JSTL apart?
- JSTL follows the principle of "doing just one thing and doing it well." It only offers template expansion without any additional framework for web programming.
- JSTL tries to reuse prior work and minimize dependencies on other components. It makes use of the excellent Rhino Javascript engine for executing Javascript code but doesn't require any third-party libraries.
- The code uses Java generics for type safety, meaning you'll need Java 1.5 or better to compile it. However, you can use the jar files with older versions of Java.
Overall, JSTL is a great option to consider for your templating language needs. Its ease of use, versatility, and scalability make it a viable choice for developers looking for straightforward template expansion.
While the idea of using Javascript for template expansion is not new, JSTL seems to be the first library that makes Javascript templating available for Java applications. Here are some key features of JSTL:
- Low learning curve: With JSTL, you won't need to learn a new syntax for programming constructs since it uses Javascript, which many people are already familiar with. The syntax is similar to JSP and is easy to embed in your application.
- No compilation cycle overhead: Unlike JSP, if you make a change in your template code, you'll see its effect immediately on reloading the page, without having to compile to a Java class.
- Compact and fast: JSTL's implementation is composed of only a few classes, making it both compact and fast.
- Versatile: JSTL can be used not just in web applications but in any context where template expansion is needed, such as for sending template-based mass emails from your application. It doesn't require servlets or any other JSDK components.
What sets JSTL apart?
- JSTL follows the principle of "doing just one thing and doing it well." It only offers template expansion without any additional framework for web programming.
- JSTL tries to reuse prior work and minimize dependencies on other components. It makes use of the excellent Rhino Javascript engine for executing Javascript code but doesn't require any third-party libraries.
- The code uses Java generics for type safety, meaning you'll need Java 1.5 or better to compile it. However, you can use the jar files with older versions of Java.
Overall, JSTL is a great option to consider for your templating language needs. Its ease of use, versatility, and scalability make it a viable choice for developers looking for straightforward template expansion.
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