The Algebra of the Interface series

The Algebra of the Interface series, read in order. Part of Dissecting Real Systems.

1. The Checkbox Is a State Machine — The indeterminate square isn't a third value of a boolean — it's a report the tree makes about itself. Model that one distinction right and the classic stuck-parent bug becomes impossible to write.
2. How Fast Web Apps Boot: The Architecture of Event-Delegated Shells — Dissecting the client architecture of event-delegated app shells — local service-worker restoration, BigPipe streaming, and declarative attribute event routing.
3. The Spreadsheet Always Wins — The spreadsheet is the requirement. Why the rewrite loses, and what a workbook would have to be so nobody needs two tools.

Read The Algebra of the Interface series in order: 3 pieces collected on one page.