Effectively Using JSON in Widgets

JavaScript’s development have never been possible without the use of its precise data format, JSON. There is always XML from the start because of its universal adaptability but any developer who wants to squeeze the best out of JavaScript, JSON should be the preferred data format. As the data format specifically created for JavaScript, it's just expected that the online application with the help of JSON will seamlessly work. Although developers have to deal with various browser incompatibilities when using JavaScript and JSON, best conditions will assure users and developers that the application will work without any problem.

Aside from online applications with JavaScript, JSON can also be implemented in various widgets. There are various online applications that makes use of widgets so that they can slowly develop their application and while reusing the said widgets for other purposes. Some widgets can even stand alone and launch in various browsers.

The seamless functionality of widgets especially when they are built for the client side can be made possible with the help of JSON.
But automatically using JSON in widgets is not an assurance that widgets will work in an optimized level. There are a few tricks developers have to observe in order for JSON to properly work with widgets.

Online Application Based Widgets

JavaScript and Ajax is implemented in many popular online applications. Websites that offer client side functionality often use this programming language to effectively stream data to their users.

If you're looking to connect to their data, it's best to use the API and widget instructions and specifications of these websites. Some even offer a library of functions so that you'll be able to use JSON without much of a challenge. You might need some customization in order to access the data that you need, but this small tweaks is easier compared to building widgets from the scratch.

Dealing with Global Scope

Like other data format, implementation of JSON will be limited by global scope. This might prohibit JSON from accessing various APIs and data sources which means the widget will never be able to display the needed information.
To address the problems with global scope, developers have to specify JSON as properties object. This might be a little bit challenging since it will require developers to be very specific on the properties for JSON. But this practice a requirement for JSON in order to access the data it needs especially on outside resources.

Warning on Eval()

Even though JSON offers the best in interaction with JavaScript, it should be noted that using JSON will immediately open the functions through limited eval(). JSON will automatically allow APIs to easily access users information. This is actually its secret: by allowing API to work well with users, JSON will enable full control of information and easily implement them according to the preference of users.

The eval() function in JSON functions in widget should increase insecurity in the widget or even in the application. For that reason, use of JSON should be limited in general data access.