Understanding Web Standards for Business
---
title: "Understanding Web Standards for Business"
date: 2008-07-29
tags: [web standards]
status: archive (read-only)
---
# Understanding Web Standards for Business
Lately I've been noticing many designers and developers understand the necessity of creating Web sites according to [standards](www.webstandards.org/…), but that is not being communicated to whom it is most important – the client. As people building Web sites we know that the [standards set forth](www.w3.org/…) aid in creating sites that will be easier to access, maintain and support in the future. We know the [technical aspects](www.w3.org/WAI/bcase/tech…) of why standards-based design is best.
Somehow, the people we are building Web sites for still don't understand the importance of Web standards though. Their reasoning for standards vs. non-standards is often ungrounded. For some it is the cost; it's easier to find a "Web Guy" that will slap together a quick, image-heavy, table-based-layout Web site for cheep, than it is to find a team that will put together a well thought out, efficient, accessible and scalable Web site. Then for others it's ignorance; just simply not knowing the benefits of a site built correctly.
So here's a few main things to point out about complying with W3C standards:
- Following standards ensure your site will work in the future, not just today.
- More browsers and devices will display your site correctly, all the time.
- Your site will perform faster when complying with the W3C Standards.
- People with disabilities will be able to access the content on your site easier.
It is our responsibility as professional Web designers and developers to [educate our clients](www.w3.org/WAI/bcase/Overview…), and help them understand the importance of having their site done right.