Web site structure best practice

[Zeroanarchy]

Hi I was wondering if someone might be able to supply some advice.

I have noticed over recent years that website structure has changed a bit. Years ago the technical layer and the presentation layer where the same layer. These days websites are presented in the following format.

Database --> Technical layer (eg. PHP, ASP, Java code) --> Presentation layer (HTML or templates) --> Design (Css)

where as previously:

Database --- > Technical, Presentation and Design layer

Now there is no doubt it, have the technical layer separate from the presentation layer is a huge plus, but I am interested as to how this came about. Is this deemed best practice and where would I find references to this format?

Cheers
Zeroanarchy


ZeroAnarchy
Experience is a wonderful thing. It enables you to recognize a mistake
when you make it again.

 

[jpadie]

i guess it came about due to the requirements for more flexible structures/faster build times etc.

with a structural separation, a designer can work on the site _at the same time_ as a coder, both taking their lead from the business owner.

 

[Zeroanarchy]

Thanks jpadie,

Ws there a process or term used to describe this style of format?

ZeroAnarchy
Experience is a wonderful thing. It enables you to recognize a mistake
when you make it again.

 

[jpadie]

i am not aware of any particular descriptor.

 

[Geee]

This is referred to as "Layer Construction" at them moment. It's likely to change though if the wind changes direction.

-Geeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee-