Our web sites are written to be fully functional in as many web browsers, across as many platforms as possible. You should be able to view all content and navigate the site in all major, and most minor browsers. Where possible we have adhered to the best web standards applicable.
The basic premise behind web standards is that pages written using a standard language should be viewable in any compatible browser.
The W3C (World Wide Web Consortium, see below) is the independent, international body of experts charged with defining these 'web standards'. The standards they define, form the basis for all main internet browsers, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Netscape Navigator, Opera etc.
For additional information on web standards and the benefits please visit the following sites:
Adhering to web standards means more clients, across a wider range of computing devices, can view your site. Instead of your site becoming unusable or failing completely on old or unsupported systems, the content can still be viewable and navigation possible.
The increased structure and use of CSS (cascading style sheets) advocated by web standards means code is easier to read and follow. This in turn means valid code is easier for developers to write and pick up, quicker to maintain, and faster to implement global style and layout changes. It is also easier and quicker for new developers to take over site maintenance and to migrate to new web servers as your requirements change.
This also means smaller page sizes and significantly reduced bandwidth usage and server load, and that means lower hoster hosting costs. With good use of web standards and CSS, it is realistic to reduce the overall code size by 25-30%, often more.
By separating content and style (cascading style sheets or CSS), content management becomes far more realistic for smaller sites and budgets. It also means reduced costs for building content management systems into larger sites.
Just as a physical property should provide access and facilities for disabled people, web sites should do the same. CSS has unparalleled support to enable access for all visitors.
What is more, adhering to these standards is generally simple and inexpensive.
The first thing to do is check you are using the latest version of your chosen browser. If not refer to your software vendors instructions on how to upgrade.
Upgrades are generally available free of charge by download from the vendors site - see links below.
As mentioned above there is a need for global web standards. The older versions of the main web browsers had many features unique to them and had poor support for anything other than the basic standards. Newer browsers have far superior functionality and support for web standards.
Whether you use Apple, Windows or Linux we strongly recommend the Firefox web browser.
This is currently the most secure, feature rich web browser available for all main computer platforms. And it's free!
To upgrade your web browser please use the following links:
If in any doubt, always consult your software and hardware vendor before upgrading.
If you have any comments, have found problems or have additional information on support for minority browsers we want to hear from you.
Please get in touch or send an email from our contact page. Thanks!