Style of Screens
Markup and client-side scripting
2.2.1 Markup and client-side scripting
Designers must consider the following points relating to the markup and client-side scripting of web pages:
- The HTML code must be well formed and conform to a valid HTML document type definition (HTML 4.01 Transitional at a minimum). There should be a logical document structure making hierarchical use of HTML.
- The HTML document structure should be consistent from page to page to ensure that all site functions are accessible and in a consistent place. It is recommended the CUE template is used to achieve this.
- JavaScript code should be set up to:
- function on compliant browsers and
- ensure that error messages are not triggered on non-compliant browsers.
- For pop-up menus:
- The main link should take users to an index page (which contains the navigation options) when CSS layout is supported but JavaScript is not.
- Browsers that have no support for JavaScript and CSS will list the navigation options under the main link.
- For expandable menus:
- The menus will appear fully expanded in browsers that do not support JavaScript.
Note: CSS compliant browsers can be used with JavaScript turned off by the user. Some users do this to avoid pop-up advertising or to reduce security risks.
TIP: See the implementation advice for index pages.
Last reviewed 29 January 2008