Frequently Asked Questions

I thought LESS.js compiles in the browser?

It does. But not every developer likes the idea of making their site's styles rely on javascript. I'd rather compile LESS during development, deploy it as CSS, and rest a little easier. One fewer thing that can fail. I've found other developers agree, hence the app.

So, this doesn't use Ruby anymore?

Correct. If you're upgrading from LESS.app 1.x, you can uninstall the old Ruby gem by opening a terminal window and typing: "sudo gem uninstall less -aix"

Do I need to install LESS.js or include it in my HTML?

Nope. The app comes with everything you need. You'll just include your CSS files in your HTML head tag as if you weren't even using LESS.

I can't see the video!

Get a browser that doesn't suck. The video is HTML5 H.264. Safari, Chrome (hell, even IE9) will play that just fine. So here's lookin' at you, Firefox.

Does it support Growl?

Yes.

Why is it Intel only?

Because the app uses Google's V8 javascript engine (the same one inside Chrome) to run Less.js. V8 is only compatible with Intel and ARM chips. Sorry. I feel your pain; I have two 12" PowerBooks still in service!

Why doesn't the app remember my folders when I upgrade?

It will for updates after version 2.0.2

What if my LESS file has errors?

You'll see the error message from the compiler in the app window (or growl note). It's usually pretty helpful. Note that the compiler will NOT produce a CSS file until you fix the errors!

Why do I have to add folders and not individual files?

First, you can add files if you want; we'll just grab the folder they're in. We watch folders because it's easier. You might have six or seven less files per website, all buried somewhere in the site's hierarchy. Instead of mucking through the filesystem looking for them, just drop the root folder on LESS.app and we'll find them for you.

I have a bug or suggestion.

Awesome. Email me: Bryan (at) incident57.com

Are you on Twitter?

You kids and your rock n' roll music. @bdkjones.

Thanks, but I like the command line better.

Haven't been laid since 1994, eh? Don't worry; it'll happen when it's meant to happen. Or when you stop memorizing UNIX commands.

What do you use for work?

Used to be Coda, now it's Espresso. I still like Panic, but Espresso is simply better software. (Seriously -- have you seen its FTP interface? Incredible.) Also, Coda's tabs make me want to hit someone in the face with a 2x4 every time I use them. Espresso's "workspace" area, by contrast, makes me want to give someone a puppy.

What about version control?

I use Cornerstone by Zennaware. It's another awesome app. Better than Versions, in my experience.

Who's better, Dylan or Springsteen?

Springsteen. Eat it, Jobs.