Beginning DotNetNuke® Skinning and Design

Chapter 14. Exploring AJAX in DotNetNuke

AJAX is the acronym for asynchronous JavaScript and XML. It's a slick technique for improving the experiences of website visitors in very specific scenarios. Most web pages won't have a case for implementing AJAX, but when the scenario is right, it can significantly elevate the visitor's perception of the website.

This chapter explores ways DotNetNuke websites can embrace features available through AJAX without becoming too bogged down in the details. The Microsoft ASP.Net 2.0 AJAX Extensions 1.0 offers a solid framework for DotNetNuke developers as well as designers. As you might have expected, the DotNetNuke team has also been working on a compelling set of AJAX features for the past few years.

To help ensure that you have a good experience with the exercises in this chapter, use DotNetNuke version 4.5.5 or later. Earlier versions might not work as well with the AJAX features you'll use in this chapter.

This chapter works through the following concepts:

• Understanding the components of Microsoft ASP.Net AJAX

• Understanding the context of the Client API inside the DotNetNuke framework

• Customizing DotNetNuke with minor enhancements

• Skinning a custom module with AJAX features

Examining Microsoft ASP.Net AJAX

The ASP.Net AJAX features are categorized into a handful of related components. All of them can be downloaded for free from the AJAX tab located at the top of the http://ajax.asp.net website. There's a ton of great video and community content available ...