Working in the area of UX sometimes feels like a crime drama. Can’t believe it? Then look at these fun parallels between modern UX practices and a classical TV detective. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/10/ux-research-learn-from-lt-columbo/
Discuss the concept of large language models (LLMs) and how they are implemented with a set of data to develop an application. Joas compares a collection of no-code and low-code apps designed to help you get a feel for not only how the concept works but also to get a sense of what types of models are available to train AI on different skill sets. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/10/overview-large-language-model-concepts-use-cases-tools/
Discover how to incorporate a variety of media formats, such as images, videos, GIFs, SVGs, and so on, in a Gatsby website. Juan Rodriguez shares what he’s learned about optimizing files for improved performance after working with different plugins and techniques. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/10/gatsby-headaches-working-media-part1/
Re-create a fancy hover effect where an avatar pops out of a starburst pattern for the frame on hover. The idea is to apply the concepts in a new context and gain another view of how trigonometric functions can influence the way we mask elements in CSS. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/10/re-creating-pop-out-hover-effect-modern-css-part2/
Geoff explores the often-overlooked divide between WordPress.org and WordPress.com, shedding light on the blurred lines between open-source ideals and commercial interests. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/10/problem-wordpress-positioning-not-plugins/
In this second article of a two-part series, Adrian shares insights about building WaterBear — his first project as a lead developer — discussing the challenges his team encountered while building it and various accessibility and performance improvements they’ve made. You’ll get a peek at the inner workings of a team striving to find its groove to systematize the work. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/10/waterbear-building-free-platform-documentaries-part2/
How about a little inspiration boost? Well, we might have something for you: desktop wallpapers created with love by artists and designers from across the globe. They are available in versions with and without a calendar for October and can be downloaded for free. Enjoy! https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/09/desktop-wallpaper-calendars-october-2023/
This article is all about experimenting with modern CSS features. We will combine things like CSS masks, CSS variables, trigonometric functions, @property, and more to create a neat hover effect that would have been extremely difficult to do even a few years ago without the latest and greatest that CSS has to offer.
https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/09/re-creating-pop-out-hover-effect-css-part1/
In this article, Ganesh Dahal explains how the features have evolved since reusable blocks were officially released in WordPress 5.0 — and how the two have converged in WordPress 6.3 to form a powerful feature capable of allowing content creators to sync content and design patterns consistently in pages and posts. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/09/exploring-enhanced-patterns-system-wordpress/
We’re talking about running grassroots conferences and meet-ups. What does it take to organize a small industry event for your community? Drew McLellan talks to WDC’s Alex Older to find out. https://smashingmagazine.com/2023/09/smashing-podcast-episode-65/