Encode space in files as + in the URLs

[rufuspollock]

Encode space in files as + in the URLs.

Right now, files with spaces in them are URL enconded in the traditional way giving URLs like this https://datahub.io/@davidgasquez/handbook/Making%20Decisions. Having Making+Decisions makes it easier to read and reference online from memory.

[willy1989cv]

Encode space in files as + in the URLs

Situation

Currently, URLs with spaces are encoded as %20, which is technically correct but less readable and user-friendly.
The encoding of space to %20 is typically handled automatically by Next.js, but we need to verify this and identify any specific places in our code where this encoding occurs (if so).

Problem

The %20 encoding for spaces in URLs reduces readability and can negatively impact user experience. We want to improve this by encoding spaces as +.

Solution

• Update URL encoding logic:
  • Replace spaces with + for new URLs.
  • Ensure backward compatibility by supporting %20 encoded URLs.
• Handle redirects:
  • Implement proper redirections from old URLs (%20) to new URLs (+) to avoid broken links.
  • Monitor SEO impact and adjust redirection strategies accordingly.
• Address Risks:
  • SEO Impact: Maintain existing SEO rankings by using 301 redirects to inform search engines of the URL changes.
  • Broken Links: Develop a comprehensive testing strategy to identify and fix broken links, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Appetite

This implementation can take from 8 to 12 hours.

Rabbit Holes

• Identify Encoding Locations: Analyze where the encoding of spaces to %20 is happening, whether it is handled automatically by Next.js or explicitly in our code.
• Legacy URLs and Redirections: I think we need to be careful when handling existing/legacy URLs, making sure it redirects to new URL format without breaking, so it does not affect SEO.

Cc: @olayway

[olayway]

The risks you mentioned should be addressed in the solution part.

[olayway]

Avoid any changes that break existing URLs without proper redirection.

This is not really a no go, rather a specific solution part/approach.

[rufuspollock]

@willy1989cv where is the encoding of space to %20 happening? I believe nextjs does it automatically or if not where in our code is it happening? That should be clearly analysed in the situation.

[willy1989cv]

@willy1989cv where is the encoding of space to %20 happening? I believe nextjs does it automatically or if not where in our code is it happening? That should be clearly analysed in the situation.

Yes! @rufuspollock I agree! I was only worried about SEO and was not asking this main question! added it to the shaping! thank you