Design Challenges

Beware of Assumptions

"Don't assume because it makes..." This is an often heard phrase among US citizens. Although somewhat vulgar, it still holds some value to it. As a Web designer you must never assume, and if you are going to assume, then always assume that the user has the oldest version of whatever you are assuming about.

For example, when loading flash onto your site, don't assume that the user has the latest and greatest flash plug-in. Assume, that they don't have flash install. With that said, you must always provide a way to obtain whatever feature you are assuming your user lacks, as to provide your user with the browsing experience you intended them to have, when you designed your site.

The bottom line is, if you plan to use flash use a detection mechanism to ensure that the user has the flash player installed. If you don't have one, then here is a good place to read up on this. http://www.kirupa.com/developer/mx/detection.htm This detection script uses JavaScript to sniff the browser and its plug-ins. However, you will find that it also provides a workaround for users who have JavaScript disabled. Talk about a preparation for the preparation.