The different ways browsers present a website has been an issue since there was more than one browser. All browsers have the job of interpreting the web page code and displaying it to the user, but no two browsers display all code the same way. What that means is that a website may look fine to one person and not to another, depending on what browser, and what version of the browser, each is using. For example, if I create a website in Internet Explorer , it probably will not look exactly the same in Chrome or Mozilla Firefox or Safari, or even in a different version of Internet Explorer.
I recall years ago, I shared with a web designer friend the link to a site of which I was very proud. She called to oooh and ahhh, but asked why the drop-down menus were only partly visible.
On her browser they looked like this:
When this is what I was seeing and the way I wanted them to look:
So what is my point? Even though browsers today display sites much more similarly than they used to, its still something to consider. Good WordPress themes solve a lot of this issue, but not all.
I don’t see what you see
First, when hiring a web designer, be sure they check the site in different browsers. No one checks them in all browsers and with all operating systems (Safari on a PC might present differently than Safari on a Mac), but be sure they check the major browsers.
Second, when working with a web designer, don’t assume they are seeing the site as you are. If there is a problem, tell them what makes it occur and which browser and version it’s happening in. Also, understand that it may not end up looking EXACTLY the same in all browsers. Making a change for the better in one might make a change for the worse in others. It can be a time consuming and irritating problem to get your business website to look good in the major browsers, but good web designers do this (and it’s why some of actually drink). In fact, I know web designers who left the business when different new browsers came out- it became a pain for them to keep up with them all.
Third, if you are “doing it yourself”, check you site on many computers and the computers of friends- especially on a Mac (Safari and Opera if they have it) and a PC (Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and at least IE 7. IE8 and IE9) to be sure the site looks good and nothing important is lost (like missing menus) or stacked.
Don’t want to drink over this? (A wise choice!) Step away from the website and leave it in the hands of a professional. Doesn’t your business website deserve a professional’s experience and care?
Richterworks Web creates business websites which convert web visitors into buyers by connecting with them and showing them why YOU are the best solution to their need. Let’s get started – call 847-577-0491.