What are Web Standards and why should you care?

MDM is a strong proponent of using web standards. So what are they and why should you care?

Web standards is a general term for the formal standards and other technical specifications that define and describe aspects of the World Wide Web. In recent years, the term has been more frequently associated with the trend of endorsing a set of standardized best practices for building web sites, and a philosophy of web design and development that includes those methods. The part of the web industry that is behind the web standards movement hopes that through the adoption of these standards and best practices we can accelerate the advancement of the internet.

Through the use of web standards the technologies behind the internet will have fewer barriers when it comes to developing improvements. Improvements that go beyond flashy new ways to show you information, although that is part of it to, but improvements in accessibility and the reach of the internet itself.

OK, but I don't care about using best practices or standards.

Beyond the advancement of the internet, web standards have direct benefits for you. A web site built with web standards will work better and more reliable across more platforms. Sure your current site works in Internet Explorer 6 but how about IE7, IE8, Firefox, Safari, Opera, Firefox for the Mac, etc. ? Using Web Standards will assure you that you reach a broader audience across the internet. And how about mobile devices? How many people do you know who have an IPhone or Blackberry? Mobile devices are the fastest growing segment of internet users and web standards will help you reach them. Shouldn't your web site be reaching as many people as possible?

I'm still not convinced. I just want a web site on the cheep.

Let's dispel this myth right now. It doesn't cost anything extra to have a web site built with web standards. It only requires the use of developers who are trained to use and understand web standards. Developers like those that work for MDM. In-fact, web standards can effect your bottom line in two very direct ways. Sites built with web standards often use less code. Less code equals smaller file sizes which means it cost you less in web hosting fees. In a high trafficked sites this has been proven to save tens of thousands of dollars. The other direct benefit is that the use of web standards has SEO benefits. And doing things right up-front could save you a bundle later.

We hope that the benefits to using web standards are clear. Contact MDM today for a free site analysis with consultation.