A great new initiative was launched recently: Move the Web Forward, which encourages developers to get involved in standards development. So I though it opportune to update and expand upon a how to by Ian Hickson from 2007.
Anyone can join the W3C HTML Working Group
Want to have a say in the development of the language of the web? Then join W3C HTML Working Group, here’s how to do it:
I encourage everyone interested in the development of HTML5 to take part. If you don’t take part, and the language develops in a way you don’t like, then you have but yourself to blame.
Taking part in the group is not a big commitment. You can spend as much or as little time contributing; you don’t need to read every e-mail on subjects you don’t care about, you don’t need to call in or attend face-to-face meetings. In fact, the W3C has stated in the group’s charter that no binding decisions will be made at meetings; you are guaranteed equal say whether you are present or not.
To join, you have to go through the following steps:
If you don’t work for a W3C member organisation:
- If you do not already have a W3C Access Account login and password (check if there is an account associated with your address), complete the Public Access Request Form. You should receive your W3C login name and password within two (2) business days.
- After you receive your W3C login name, complete the W3C Invited Expert Application. You should receive a reply within ten (10) business days. If your request is accepted, you will receive an invitation with additional instructions for formally joining the group.
- You will then be able to complete the form for joining and participating in the HTML Working Group as an Invited Expert, at which point you are a bona fide member!
- Remember to read the HTML Working Group Charter, invited expert and collaborators agreement and Policy for Approval of Invited Experts documents.
You will also be subscribed automatically to the group’s mailing lists.
If you do work for a W3C member organisation:
The steps above don’t apply to you. Instead, you have to follow these instructions.
What about HTML5 Accessibility?
The W3C HTML Working Group has a dedicated accessibility task force (mailing list) working on a range of HTML5 accessibility issues:
Note: Any HTML working group member can join the accessibility taskforce and are encouraged to!
Based on Ian Hickson’s post (2007) and Instructions for joining the HTML Working Group
