Mozilla Labs Open Web Tools Directory announced

The Open Web Tools Directory Mozilla Labs have announced the Open Web Tools Directory, a site which attempts to index all the available web development tools. Rather than a traditional "master/detail database", the Labs developers decided to create a "fun to use" directory which uses the canvas component to display icons or logos for all the tools. Users can then enter a search term or select a category and irrelevant icons disappear, leaving only matching tools which rearrange themselves into an orderly grid. Clicking on an icon displays the project name, a few words about the project and a link to the projects site.

There is a data entry form on Google Spreadsheets, for developers to submit their own tools to the system; submissions will be reviewed by Labs developers and added regularly to the directory.

The Labs developers have a number of plans for the site including more detailed information on projects with screen shots, version numbers, pricing/licensing and other information, social participation features like ranking and comments and adding accessibility to the directory, both for non Canvas implementing web browsers and for users who need to use screen readers.

(djwm)