Preparing for Google Chrome

Preparing for Google Chrome

Robert Beerworth | 30/09/2008

Google recently released a beta version of their new Internet Browser called Chrome in more than 100 countries. Their approach is to provide a web browser better suited to handle the media rich experience that users now expect on the Internet.

Chrome boasts a host of features including enhanced stability through a multi-processer design and increased security from malware and phishing through concepts like sandboxing. It’s no surprise that enhanced search features have been carefully integrated into the user experience. Despite the unique direction Google is taking, Chrome will remain an open source project, allowing developers to build upon the application.

It’s too early to tell exactly how much attention Chrome will take from existing browser giants Microsoft Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox. However, the Google name alone ensures at least a small percentage of your website visitors will be using Chrome in the near future. If the browser is able to meet its claims for stability and security, usage may rise considerably.

What steps will you take to ensure your website works with Chrome?

Google has outlined many steps they are taking to ensure most websites will be compatible with their new browser but even they admit that there will be exceptions. If you are a veteran to web design and website management, you know you will most likely have to take some steps on your own to ensure your site functions correctly on Chrome.

To address this potential issue, you should first download Chrome and spend an ample amount of time navigating your site and noting any style issues. Does your site look the same? Does the navigation work? Should you locate any style issues, you will need to have your cascading style sheet, or CSS file, updated by your web developer.

It’s best to begin testing your website with Chrome now. Although your time may be a premium, it is better to address this issue now before your website users have a negative experience due to incompatibility.

tags: Online Trends ,  Web Design ,  Web Strategy