Webfitti has been working overtime to get some cool tools out for download.

Toolbars, web apps and some software to analyse your site’s internet fitness and suggest ways of improving it. And it’ll all be available for free download. Webfitti believes in doing its bit for improving the web – and that’s what we are focusing on right now.

So stay tuned. We’ll have more updates very soon.

Very few sites knowingly follow web standards, most simply dependent on their web design software to create standards-compliant sites.

Here is a sprinkling of thoughts on web standards and usability -

1. 10 Tools for Evaluating Web Design Accessibility

… every aspect of a web page to determine its accessibility. A helpful toolbar feature is the Text Equivalents menu which allows you to generate lists of elements such as images and links to see whether each are standards-compliant. …

2. 20 Websites That Made Me A Better Web Developer

The Web Standards Project “fights for standards that reduce the cost and complexity of development while increasing the accessibility and long-term viability of any site published on the Web”. Whether it’s suggesting correct mark-up or …

3. Cool Technology of the Week

I’ve read some articles and heard some rumors that HITSP efforts are not XML based, are not vocabulary controlled, and are not embracing existing web standards. The SSA project illustrates the reality of how HITSP interoperability …

4. Why web standards compliant valid code is important pt2

As part of any new web development or enhancement make it a requirement that any coding validates. If you’re a Government department web development work needs to comply with the New Zealand Government Web Standards one of which …

Most businesses have no idea on what makes a site usable and most simply depend on web designers to provide them with a site that works.

Here are some thoughts from various folk on web usability:

1. What to look for when choosing your web designer

You must ensure they deliver the basics of web design – a user friendly, visually appealling website that loads very quickly. Usability is another factor that you must pay attention to – you don’t want visitors leaing your site in …

2. The Enemies of Web Usability [stereotypes]

Web usability, however, seems to be fairly new to the average person involved in creating and/or managing sites, especially in businesses. And, unfortunately, the majority still don’t care about it since they can’t see how it could help …

3. Target Understands the Value of Usability

It is our sincere hope that other businesses providing goods and services over the Internet will follow Target’s example and take affirmative steps to provide full access to their Web sites by blind consumers. NFB Press Release …

4. Effectively communicate your websites purpose – Web Usability

Sometimes web usability tests from other people can significantly help you with this. Have a clear logo (preferably in the top left corner as this is where people expect to see it). It is vital that your customers can remember the site …

Webfitti strives to help businesses understand and implement usable websites.