[WEB400] Re: Modify the IE Browser

[Hans Boldt <boldt@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Peter Vidal wrote:
> Gentlemen:
>
> This is simply an Intranet application.  I do not want user to be able to do
> alterations to the look and feel of the "subfiles" to be displayed, icons,
> buttons, internet options, etc.
>
> Due to the fact that this application will run on the floor, there will be lots
> of "hands" touching the application so I just want to protect the users by
> protecting the application of been "tailorable", at least under this application
> only.
>
> However, the discussion has turned in a very interesting one, as always guys...
> more ideas and comments are welcomed.

Ahh, a very good point. Design differences between intranet apps and 
external web sites are so fundamentally different that it is always 
best to be specific when asking questions.

For intranet apps, you generally have complete control over the 
hardware and software used in your shop, and so testing is much more 
managable. Also, the operators of internal apps generally have to be 
trained to use the app, and often the app has to be designed with 
specific through-put rates in mind. In such an environment, of 
course you take full advantage of whatever tricks are available to you.

On the other hand, for external apps, you can never be sure of the 
user's client software or hardware configuration, or physical or 
mental abilities (or disabilities). In that environment, you need to 
design your app differently - the app needs to accomodate the user, 
not the other way around. User rejects your cookies? You (the app 
developer) need to be able to deal with it. Fancy effects with 
JavaScript or Flash? Fine, as long as the user can still get what he 
needs without suffering through that eye candy. Also don't forget 
that if it's difficult for an end-user to get to information on your 
site, it may also be difficult for a spider to index that 
information, making it even harder for people to get to it.

Cheers! Hans