Content that is published on the web attracts a worldwide audience. However, not all worldwide web users have the latest browsers. Broadband Internet access is not always available outside major cities, and Internet service providers do not always charge a flat monthly rate for access. To accommodate worldwide users, use the guidelines in the following table.
Guideline | |
|---|---|
Use standard HTML tags. | Avoid proprietary tags. If you are developing HTML text with scripted code, globalize any text that is generated by the scripts, too. |
Keep download issues in mind. | Charges for Internet service vary greatly depending on locale. Keep page size under 100 KB when possible, and consider including a text-only version of the page for larger content. |
Design pages so that text loads first, followed by graphics. | This sequence ensures that the page is usable before it is fully loaded. |
Keep in mind that some products and formats are not available worldwide. | Localized versions of new and updated products and formats may lag behind U.S. availability. |
Provide support for browsers likely to be used by the worldwide audience. | If you are supporting earlier versions of browsers, you might need to do the following:
|
Use the simplest possible design techniques. | None. |
Account for worldwide users who read from right to left or from top to bottom. | You may not be able to provide an ideal site for these users, but page design can help. For example, you might provide key information, such as home page links, at both the upper-right and upper-left sides of the page to increase your chances of reaching all users. |
If your content will be localized or might be localized in the future, allow space for text expansion. | Some languages require many more words to express an idea that may be expressed compactly in English. Even if text will not be localized, be aware that many worldwide users translate English text by using an automated translation engine, such as Bing Translator. (http://www.microsofttranslator.com/) |
None. | |
If software contains code subject to export restrictions in the United States or legal requirements in other countries or regions, remove the code from versions that do not meet those requirements. | |
Exercise care when you provide software for download or on a multiproduct CD. | United States laws restrict the delivery of certain information and technologies internationally. Verify that the download complies with United States laws. |
Be aware of the restrictions for downloads in a country or region. | Marketing statements, political statements, and names of people, places, and landmarks are restricted by law in some countries or regions. Restrict downloads that make reference to such information unless you are sure that the download is legal in the country or region. |
If possible, link only to globalized sites and to publications that are available worldwide. | None. |
If possible, link to a site where the user can specify the appropriate country or region. | None. |
Identify links and cross-references that are not globally relevant. | If you must link to a site or refer to a publication that is not globalized, inform your users. |
Monitor requests for email newsletters to determine user location. | Email notes that are sent to users outside the United States must be globalized, localized, or customized to meet local requirements. |