What are things which cannot be done via server side language and only possible with JavaScript?

Question

• Is it possible to avoid JavaScript these days for small business websites, blogs etc ?
• and is it wise idea?
• What are things which cannot be done via server side language and only possible with JavaScript? Or is everything possible except animation with server side languages which is possible with JavaScript?
• What are reasons in favor of use of JavaScript is good for website for better functionality, Accessibility, SEO and Usability?
• In what scenarios we should use JavaScript always even if thing is also possible with server side language?
• What are common myth about use of Javascript?

Answer 1

It is definitely possible for small businesses, blogs, etc to have sites that do not use any Javascript. It will be difficult to create as strong a user experience, but it can certainly be done. Blogs would be the easiest to do, as there's generally little need for fancy features in a blog.

Basically, the key things that can be done in Javascript that can't be done in server side languages are interactions with the user without additional page reloads. This can certainly create better functionality and increase usability. I'd expect some benefits to accessibility as well. SEO doesn't seem very much a part of it though.