Freelance online marketplace Elance added an HTML5 Developer Skill Test to its existing suite of professional tests today. HTML5 is an important open Web standard for designers to master now but in short order will be even more so as demand grows.

Elance has seen demand for HTML5 skills skyrocket of late. Job posts seeking HTML5 developers have doubled month-over-month while HTML is consistently one of the most sought after IT skills by businesses today.

“Businesses are eager to tap into HTML5 technologies to incorporate video and audio directly into their web sites. With HTML5, you're able to do most anything that Flash or Java could do, without the need to ask your end-user to install and maintain extra software. This allows companies to focus on their content and new ideas -- not the technology behind them. I’m thrilled to have found a network like Elance where companies are seeking out these skills,” said Chris Gladd, an HTML5 expert on Elance.

“The HTML5 skill test boosts my credibility on Elance and lets potential clients know I have the talent to create a great product that will be future-proof for years to come.”