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The Web is a dynamic medium with capabilities that are always changing. The mad rush to combine a sleek design with cool features can sometimes result in the HTML code that is makeshift and poorly organized. Since the web page function in a recent version of Internet Explorer (the most common browser), everyone assumes it's OK.

It's not.

HTML has an inherent structure. A "hacked together" page that ignores the structure can be temporary solution, but not a long-term one. What works on today's version of Internet Explorer may not work on last year's version, or a current version of Netscape.

Consider:

• Internationally, technology is behind the North America. Many countries use computers that are years out-of-date.
• Charities and non-profit organizations may rely on donated or surplus computers that are not up-to-date.
• Government departments are often standardized, meaning every employee in a department has the same computer set-up. It also means software updates may occur once each year…or even longer.
• New technical developments allow those with disabilities to access the web through reading a page's text, enlarging the text, or navigating through voice commands instead of a mouse. These assistive technologies rely on properly structured HTML.
• The Web is no longer just on computers. Handle-held devices — like cell phones and PDAs — can now access the Web. These devices also require properly structured HTML to function.