Optimizing Your Site for the iPad

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In the days gone by, digital developers and designers put in a lot of time and effort in making websites for bigger screen sizes. It may however be noted that, as of late, a growing number of users are accessing the Internet from their mobile devices, which have smaller screens.

iPads and iPhones, particularly, have a substantial share in the rapidly growing mobile gadgets market. However, since these devices come with smaller screens, they pose unique challenges for website development. Presented below are some points that should to be taken into consideration when optimizing your site for iPads or iPhones.

Using a Tablet

Avoid the Use of Flash

Flash content is typically not supported on iOS devices and applications. This means that, if your website has Flash-dependent items, they won’t appear on the website when it is accessed via an iPad. This can result in a lot of frustration for the user, as he/she will only see holes in places where flash content is supposed to be.

It should also be noted that, in some cases, browsers might prompt to download and install the latest version of Flash when it comes across missing Flash data. This will further irritate a user who will most likely leave your website. Website developers can check whether they need the flash content on their website. If it is essential, then you can use alternate technologies like HTML5 to display it on the iPad.

Ensure that the Website Works in Landscape and Portrait Modes

The iPad is a device that allows users to view websites and other items in both portrait and landscape modes. Hence, developers need to create a website that will work from every angle. You will need to think about the appearance of your website in both of these modes. Developers may use adaptive CSS and fluid-width layouts to prepare the website for all kinds of screens. This preparation will not only result in proper display of all content on the website, but will also offer much needed flexibility for the user.

Avoid Complicated Navigation

Easy navigation is one of the most important facets of a website. A website that is full of varied functionality, such as sound files and fly-outs, poses great navigational difficulties when accessed through an iPad. It may be noted that even desktop users tend to prefer websites that are not loaded with excessive functionality. Developers have to keep in mind that, unlike a desktop, navigation on an iPad is done via a finger and not a mouse. The website should then be designed accordingly.

Create an Alternate Mobile Site

It may be noted that a website which has been altered to suit the needs of an iPad user may not as attractive or flashy as you want it to be. In such a scenario, developers can create a traditional website for desktop users, and redirect iPad users to an alternate site. Such a site should be specifically designed for iPad and iOS mobile device users. It is also important to make sure that you give the users the option of changing over to a mobile-enabled site from the main site.

This article was written by Sheldon Armstrong, a techy who loves writing about the latest in technology and blogging about it online. He recommends that you get a kensington ipad bluetooth keyboard to make it more optimal which you can get at kensington.com.

A List of Some of the Best Cloud Services for Small Businesses

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Running a small business is hard enough without worrying about what cloud service would be the best for you and your employees. These programs can help you manage your work each day and streamline your tasks so that you can work more efficiently whether you are at your desk or on the go meeting clients and getting things done. The following is a list of the best cloud-based computer programs to invest in for your business.

These services make it easy to manage data and important files without needing to be hooked up to your desktop computer. They allow you to access your files wherever you go on every device, no matter how small. They’re also a great way to share information with your employees. Because the advantages of using cloud software are so abundant, if you have not yet switched over to one, check out the list below to get started.

Cloud Services

Office 365

If your business runs off of a Windows-based system, Office 365 is what you need. It includes SharePoint, Office and Exchange, making it simple to store and share important information across the many departments of your organization quickly and easily. Edit Office documents wherever you go, even on the smallest devices, including your cellphone.

DocuSign Pro

If you normally need to have people sign many contracts or forms but you do not always work in-person with your employees, freelancers and clients, DocuSign Pro could be a great way to enhance the way that your small business operates on a daily basis. Forget the faxes and the copying machines because now you can have people sign your important documents right on the Internet. And it is also an easy, paperless way to keep track of your important signed documents.

Togglebox Cloud Server

Depending upon what size you need, you can purchase cheap servers on Togglebox. This company allows you to customize a plan that will work for you so that you can work in your business’s budget as well as get the amount of server storage you need. It also features backup storage to make sure that you are able to retrieve your data in the event of a crash. You can host everything you need on your cloud server with the peace of mind that you are not paying too much and you are getting high-quality service.

Adobe Connect

If you often have to connect with several other people from various parts of the country, or even other parts of the world, one of the best ways to do so is with Adobe Connect. Take your Web conferences to a whole new level with this customizable program that lets you have video conferences, look at other computer screens, and quickly and easily share files. Conferencing has never been so easy or as productive.

About the author:

Lisa is a freelance writer who understands how difficult running a small business can be. That is why she recommends cloud-based software programs to business owners. She recommends you visit website for more information.