The Constant Reinvention of the Web: A Three-Decade Perspective on Change
By
Dougal MacPherson
Summary
Drawing from decades of experience, the author reflects on the web's constant evolution — from the early days of HTML and dial-up to modern frameworks, mobile-first design, and AI. The piece uses the metaphor of parenting (just when you think you've figured things out, everything changes) to illustrate how web design and development have undergone continuous reinvention. It explores key historical shifts, the rise and fall of technologies, and where the industry stands today, emphasizing that adaptability is the only constant.
Source
A List ApartThe Constant Reinvention of the Web: A Three-Decade Perspective on Changealistapart.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledWhen you start to think that you've got everything figured out, everything will change.
Forget death and taxes. The only certainty on the web is change.
Having worked on the web for almost three decades at this point, I've seen the rise and fall of countless technologies, frameworks, and best practices.
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