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 Posted by Jeff  Fritz on 06/11/07 11:29 
I've started out by coding websites for myself - but eventually have 
moved on to making websites as projects  for people.  Originally, when 
doing personal websites, I had the leisure of taking my time and coding 
however I wanted - however, when coding for someone else, they often 
want things done a certain way. 
 
	It's hard explain to someone non technically-savvy about what's the 
best way to code a website - they often want a feature that isn't 
exactly in line with coding standards.  So basically, you have to 
explain to them in as simple  terms as possible, the advantages of 
coding according to web standards. 
 
	For example, take excessive javascript code - many clients or users 
might want you to make a website that has some fancy flashing text or 
needless image effects using javascript.  It might work fine for your 
user, who has a mainstream windows PC that runs these effects fine. 
 
	However, you need to make your user realize that not everyone's PC is 
equal - and thus as a result, javascript in one person's browser 
might completely bog down their computer's resources so much, that it 
virtually renders it useless.  In others, javascript might not even be 
supported.  So, any functionality of the site that relies on javascript 
will be inaccessible by these users. 
 
	It's impossible to track down all of the combinations of users' 
operating systems, computer speeds, and browser software, so it is best 
just to stay away from javascript altogether.  When making an 
informational or commercial website, it's very important to take your 
audience into consideration. 
 
	If you're making a vending site that sells computer parts, most likely 
your audience will be computer savvy and may be able to handle some 
javascript elements.  However, if you're making a general information 
page on a topic, you should make your page as clear and accessible as 
possible. 
 
	So, that's just one aspect of code that you may not see eye to eye 
with your user about.  However, explain it to them in easy to 
understand concepts, and they will have an easier time comprehending.
 
  
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