IE8 Problems Displaying Older Website

The Situation

Microsoft has released the beta version of Internet Explorer 8 (IE8) and many website owners are not happy about their experience. It seems that IE8 does some strange things to websites that were built for older browser versions. Owners of older websites may notice that their website is “breaking apart” with misplaced images, menus, text or other critical content elements. In some case the problem goes beyond display problems and may affect functionalities or generate script errors.

An analogy is that your salesman has a crumpled suit, loose tie and scuffed shoes. If your site has problems in IE8 you have officially fallen behind online and need to do something about it . . . fast!

A Dismal Workaround

Microsoft has provided a workaround in the form of “Compatibility View” which is an option in the tool bar which basically tells IE8 to handle the website differently. We find this to be a dismal workaround because your business prospect may not be willing to work through the inconvenience your site presents . . . and your site has made a poor impression on the prospect. At this point, how will the prospect perceive your business? And more to the point, what are your options for a real website solution? You simply cannot assume that your prospective customers are going to make any changes to their computer settings. In 2011 there are still many people using IE6! It is incumbent upon every business owner to make certain that their website renders well in all modern web browsers.

A Real Solution

Chances are good that any website built for older browsers (IE6 or before) looks outdated and probably has very outdated content. The potential problems with your site’s IE8 compatibility alone are motivators to make an investment in your business website, and invest in a complete redesign. Doing a website redesign will allow you to bring forward your internet presence, and improve the branding and messaging to your prospective customers. Additionally, during the website redesign process you should engage the services of an expert Atlanta SEO company to improve search engine rankings for your website.

The Truth About Costs

It has been proven over and over that inaction can lead to failure, or at least very dismal results. The resulting cost of inaction (loss of new business opportunities) can be massive. The cost to go through a website redesign process is probably far less than what you expect. In fact, a new website should pay for itself within the first three months – after which time it is making money! While the cost of a website redesign is certainly to be measured in the thousands, not hundreds, of dollars you can bet that a site that poorly reflects your business is going to cost you a lot more. Your online salesman needs to invest in a better look.

Finding A Website Redesign Company

You could go back to the company or person that got you into this position but it’s not a good idea. An IT guy does not understand marketing concepts and an advertising company does not understand web standards and technical issues. A big box company like the phone company is not going to offer customized designs, search engine optimization or a full range of Internet marketing solutions. Our recommendation is to hire a legitimate Atlanta internet marketing company with real world business experience, great technical skills and expert sales and marketing experience.

Having a new and modern website design will insure that your online presence is a positive reflection on your business, and is doing the best possible job at finding more prospective customers online.