How does HTML5 change the way you should have your website?

25 July 2012

We’re blessed, in a sense, that today’s technology enables the construction of websites and various page elements without one actually needing the possess advanced knowledge. Take HTML for example. Although this is the fundamental building block of webpages, few people actually know what it is. HyperText Markup Language is basically the language—code—websites speak, and without that, you wouldn’t be able to construct viewable pages.

HTML was created by a physicist in the late 1980s and early 90s. Version 2.0, technically the first official version online, was made available in 1995. As you might imagine, a lot has changed since 1995. We’ve gone from basic CRT color TVs to HD flat screens; from bulky, unattractive cellular phones to sleek, slim smartphones. And, of course, from basic HTML to new various today, like HTML5.

HTML5 is a major revision to other coding language like HTML and XHTML. It deals with every single aspect you could imagine concerning the way your content is built, formatted and presented to an audience. So let’s take a look at the many different benefits of HTML5.

The Differences of HTML5

Ease of Use: HTML5 simply includes more and allows you to do more without the assistance of other programs. You can easily create web graphics, easily embed videos on pages, launch websites while offline, and the execution of all these independent elements are joined and subsequently the process is speeded up significantly.

Eliminating Plug-Ins: Even with great versions out there like XHTML, designers still needed third-party plug-ins on their browsers, like Microsoft Silverlight, Google Gears, and Adobe Flash. HTML5 makes those plug-ins antiquated. It’s an open-source system that allows you to use many drag-and-drop and video playback features that are all contained within a single system. The end result can be a more complex service.

How HTML5 Can Benefit You

You may be wondering whether or not you should switch to HTML5 to design your site and its elements, or if you should just stay with older versions. Well, there is certainly nothing wrong with HTML and XHTML. People have been building sites for years using this language. So not making the switch isn’t putting you behind the 8-ball or anything. However, you may gain a competitive edge by making the switch.

HTML5 is more location aware, in the sense that you can more easily target the necessary audience without having to put in all of the legwork of years past. You can also avoid those pesky memory leaks and crashes and other problems that vary from browser to browser and OS to OS. While Internet Explorer is still slow to support HTML5 features, it works perfectly on Firefox and on Mac systems.

If you are building a business website, using HTML5 is recommended. You can more easily construct mobile pages using this language, and you will reach more of a worldwide audience. It’s also going to work to save you a lot of time and hassle. Using HTML5 means you won’t have to use and learn a lot of other programs. It’s just simpler in the end.