Yahoo! Patterns Library

Yahoo's recently released patterns library features design patterns and related code snippets related to Yahoo web sites. Such libraries are fast becoming a popular solution to an old problem. Many companies face the challenge of having multiple sites, microsites, and applications managed by disparate groups all of which have common UI components. Imagine having those components manifest themselves in different ways on the same site, no less. A patterns library minimizes the incidence of such an occurence as it is essentially an online repository of vetted solutions to design problems. It facilitates design re-use which feeds into code re-use making the design and development process more consistent and efficient.

I think the fact that Yahoo has chosen to make this library public is brilliant for a number of reasons. It's a great way to garner feedback from users and apply that feedback to iterate on the patterns and ultimately improve on the usability of the Yahoo sites. Also, users may not be aware of each of Yahoo's myriad of sites. Each pattern links to the related site including beta releases. This way I, too, know of Yahoo's Trip Planner site. Who knew?!

Check it out for yourself, the Yahoo! Design Pattern Library, at http://developer.yahoo.com/ypatterns/index.php and see our Experts Corner for a related article by Jared Spool on "The Elements of a Design Pattern". The WebGuild also recently hosted Bill Scott of the Yahoo! Patterns Library to present on this very topic. Listen to the podcast of that event.