In every design project, there is a point in the process where you ask yourself, “Do I want to use cutting-edge features and techniques, or will I be better off playing it safe?” The question may arise early on during high-level strategy discussions, or later on when weighing options for how to handle a specific component, but how you answer can have major impacts on how well your site meets your needs. As in most things, the answer depends on your particular goals, markets, and circumstances. If your brand involves an early adopter component, then taking chances on the latest and greatest aligns well with your strategy, but if you are more in the technological mainstream, proceed with caution.
Assess the Risk
In designing for the Web, pushing the envelope often equates to exploring the limits of what we can do with current browser and platform technology. Since the tools your audience uses can vary widely, deciding whether or not to build a cutting-edge feature usually comes down to listing the pros and cons of going forward with it. Some typical responses are:
Pros
- Pushing the limits forces you to think more creatively and critically.
- Pushing the limits also presents the possibility of uncovering previously unforeseen opportunities you can take advantage of.
- Discover and solve problems related to the feature before your competitors.
- Promote an avant-garde image.
- Build a reputation as being ahead of the curve.
Cons
- The latest technology may be theoretically nice, but practically useless to the vast majority of your audience.
- Your user base uses older technology that cannot support the newest features.
- Code may have to be turned over to less skilled maintenance staff.
- Immature technology can be buggy. If something doesn’t work, your audience won’t be impressed with your efforts to be cutting-edge – they’ll just think you’re inept.
- Usability may suffer if you stray too far from expectations.
Your Turn
Obviously, your list will vary and be specific to the feature you’re considering. Comments are welcome – what pros and cons to cutting-edge features and techniques have you encountered in your web design projects?
Image: Skydiving 2009, by divemasterking2000 on Flickr
