jQuery has just released version 1.5 of their user interface module called “jQuery UI”.  Maybe not the most snazzy of names, however, the module is a major leap forward for web developers and application developers.  You can see the details at http://ui.jquery.com although the high interest has crash the server, I think.  I can’t wait to try it out. 🙂

The blog post is extremely well written and gives a great high level overview of what the module does.  When jQuery first came out, it totally transformed the way I think about building websites.  With jQuery UI, I think a similar change would happen for applications.

I still love ExtJS for heavy duty applications like Marketo, but you do have to buy a license.  For an open source alternative, and a lighter weight version, jQuery UI is a perfect solution.  In fact, I am already thinking about how the Marketo Landing Page designer could be enhanced with jQuery UI.

Certainly, the tabs would be great to build those through the UI.  This would help users who want Microsites, but know that it is better to keep the user on the same page.  I will have to think about this more, but I think there is alot of potential there.

Check it out and see what you think.