The rapid rise of HTML5

Out of all the programming languages, HTML5 is proving to be one of the most widely used coding schemes in mobile applications and business software. While there were some misconceptions about HTML5 and its capabilities early on, the language has become more of a permanent fixture in the deployment of numerous products. Organizations will need to ensure that they support HTML5 development by providing the appropriate tools and support users will need to create successful applications.

With the emergence of mobile devices in the workplace, more enterprises are calling on developers to use HTML5 to develop work applications and support a variety of mobile processes. According to a Sencha survey of more than 2,000 application developers, more than 60 percent have migrated to HTML5 for the primary applications and 75 percent plan to do more with the programming language next year. The code is most often used for animations, CSS3 styling, local storage, video and canvas drawing API. With these processes and more being handled by HTML5, it's no surprise that more than half of respondents support both desktop and mobile devices with their primary applications. The emergence of new equipment is also factoring into HTML5 reinforcement, as the average developer now is creating programs for up to five types of hardware.

"HTML5 developers enjoy higher productivity, a better ROI and performance that meets their requirements," the report stated. "While there will always be a place for native app development, for the highest performance and native platform features, from our survey data, HTML5 developers have higher loyalty to their chosen technology than native mobile developers."

Face of development continues to change
Application builders are increasingly targeting Windows laptops, Android devices as well as Apple phones and tablets to capitalize on the popular devices that people are using for both their personal activities and work processes. Mobile devices are affecting how developers create programs and what languages they choose to code in. According to Vision Mobile's Developer Economics report, 59 percent of developers are prioritizing iOS while 52 percent put HTML as their top choice. While iOS pays developers more overall per application, HTML developers have higher salaries in the low-income tier and top-most tier, demonstrating the ability of the program to play market extremes.

ReadWrite contributor Matt Asay noted that developers are using HTML5 as a way to work with both Android and iOS. This comes after HTML5 mindshare increased to 52 percent in 2013 while Apple's fell to 52 percent. While the programs for the mobile manufacturers are still popular, HTML5 provides a more affordable way to make applications in developing countries and in businesses that have tight budgets.

"As more mobile devices migrate to emerging markets, we'll continue to see a shift toward Android and HTML5," Asay wrote. "A native iOS or Android experience continues to be preferred by both users and developers, but it's becoming increasingly cumbersome to support multiple device types."