I have experience utilizing microformats extensively, and I believe they offer several advantages:
- Robots can easily access data, such as Google Rich Snippets.
- Users can access data through tools like H2VX that support microformats.
- Data validation is possible to some extent.
- The markup becomes more meaningful, which brings me joy.
On the other hand, there are some minor drawbacks:
- It can be time-consuming to hand-code microformats; automating the process or creating snippets in a CMS can help alleviate this issue.
- Extra attention needs to be paid to UI design for optimal results, which may involve custom icons.
Microformats function well within HTML5. While new HTML5 elements like <time>
align with microformat functions, most current microformat tools struggle to handle these new elements.
Alternatives to microformats include HTML5's microdata and RDFa. Microdata, although relatively new with limited tool support, allows for representing microformats. The HTML5 specification also includes microdata versions of vCard and vCal. Additionally, HTML5's data-
attribute can be used for private data storage but does not encode visible information.
In my view, microformats are straightforward but specific, RDFa is complex yet versatile, and microdata strikes a balance between the two. While Google Rich Snippets can extract data from any of these formats, user tools are still catching up. Regardless, the primary benefit remains making content more accessible by exposing additional information.
For reference, I have worked with various microformats such as hCard, hCalendar, hEvent, hAtom, hReview, XFN, and rel-license.
Additional articles on microformats and microdata can be found on HTML5Doctor:
- Extending HTML — Microformats
- Extending HTML — Microdata
I hope this helps!