Explore the complexities and challenges of handling time zones in software development through this JSConf EU 2015 talk. Delve into the intricacies of time representation, standardization efforts, and the impact of political decisions on time zones. Learn from real-world examples, including a Middle East incident, to understand the importance of accurate time zone management. Discover various solution approaches, their pitfalls, and the ever-changing nature of time zones. Examine JavaScript-specific challenges, client libraries, and the role of geolocation in time zone determination. Gain insights into common falsehoods about time zones, the impact of daylight saving time, and the difficulties in keeping up with changing rules. Conclude with a discussion on potential improvements for handling time zones in the future.
Overview
Syllabus
Intro
How soon is now?
The simplest solution
Solution #1
Time according to whom?
Standardise time
Reality: Politics
You're going to be wrong
Solution #2
Cognitive friction
Solution #3
UTC?
Solution #4
Should be simple, right?
Falsehoods
Daylight saving
Changing rules us
How the hell do you keep up? Js
JS client libraries
North Korea to turn clocks back by 30 minutes to establish own time zone
Geolocation?
What's in a name?
A better future
Taught by
JSConf
