Losing visitors due to lack of testing is a horrible excuse for any web developer. Not only can it easily be avoided by a little testing, but it can substantially increase revenue for any website.
What to test for:
Browsers are known to cause problems for much of the modern ways of web development. Although there has been much improvement towards compatibility, there are still problems with CSS. Some examples of problem causers include float:, :hover, margin: and padding: (box model).
To avoid such problems in browsers, we must test the code within as many browsers as possible.
Most commonly used browsers (although it defers amongst countries):
- Firefox
- Opera
- Safari
- IE 5.5, 6.0, 7.0
With the many types of monitors and computers there has become many different screen resolutions from within the web community. As a result, we must not only cater to different browsers, but also as many resolutions as possible. To do this, liquid layouts are seen as a huge asset, but also have drawbacks from a design aspect. On the other hand, fixed layouts (at the right size) can greatly increase the possibilities of design, but can hinder visitors if their screen resolution is out of the norm. Either way, testing is the right way to go.
Most common screen resolutions, although it may vary between type of website and country:
- 1024×768
- 800×600
- 1280×800
The best way I have found to test screen resolutions is by using a great add-on for Firefox which allows developers to resize their browser for any screen resolution called Web Developer Toolbar. All you have to do is download the Toolbar, then click ‘resize’ and select the screen resolution you wish to test. You can also add in your own resolution if it isn’t listed.
Written: Sep 18, 2007
0 Responses to "Lack of Testing Pisses off Visitors"
No comments yet.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.
