Author Archive

IE 9

Friday, March 18th, 2011

Another point is that IE9 will only be available to people with Windows 7 or Windows Vista service pack two. The larger user base of Windows XP machines will be left with IE8 which has hardly any HTML5 capability so for the people who want to enjoy HTML5 sites will just download a third party browser like Google Chrome or Firefox rather than upgrade their setup.

Perhaps I am being too harsh on IE9 it runs smoothly loads pages quickly and has at last adopted a lot of the functionality that other browsers have had for a long time, but maybe that is the point other browsers have the same if not better functionality while allowing for full HTML5 compliancy and no need to have to upgrade your computer to use.

So in conclusion is it any good? There is better…

Bespoke Ecommerce vs. off the shelf

Friday, February 25th, 2011

With most people abandoning the high street in favour of online shopping most companies are looking for an ecommerce website. With this decision also comes the question which is the better option; a bespoke ecommerce web design or a cheaper alternative with an off-the-shelf ecommerce package? Supporters of a bespoke system will often point the advantages of having a tailor made system while the off the shelf ecommerce providers will argue that the usability and speed of their products makes them superior. Your decisions as to which one to use will normally come down to the functionality, ease of use and most importantly the cost.

Although an off the shelf ecommerce solution may be advertised as “easy to install and manage” this is aimed at people who have a relatively good working knowledge of the web. Working with Rapid Web means that we handle all of the technical jargon while still producing a website that is functional and cost effective. We will then give you training on how to maintain your site and support you in getting your business working for you on the web. Off the shelf ecommerce systems may come with instructions manuals, but communicating with ourselves and developing your understanding for the systems in place is where we excel.

You can start off small with a bespoke website and then further develop it as your customer base increases. Off the shelf systems often limit the functionality, constrained to what the developer of that system saw as a good ecommerce design.  This often differs from your personal ideas or existing product catalogue for your site.

Rapidweb offers a professional consultation tailored to your company’s needs, specifying what’s really needed to get a business running online. Then we can work towards putting the special touches that makes your business unique.  At the end of the day no business is the same, so why would you choose to use the same as your competitors?

A bespoke system can easily integrate with any existing I.T. system or web services as the system is built from the ground up and specific to your needs. This kind of system can often make your site look unique and set you apart from competitors who have opted for an off the shelf system as they usually look similar. We would offer professional advice as to which systems work best and provide the most efficient integration.

The Leap goes live

Thursday, February 12th, 2009

We’ve just launched the latest inception of one of the UK’s most prominent gap year placement companies. The Leap specialise in creating breath-taking, life-changing experiences for students taking time out from their studies, or adults taking time out from their busy career. The Leap takes people on excursions into deepest Africa,  South America and Asia helping communities and really making a difference to the communities and conservation.

Rapid Web created a totally bespoke CMS that allows administrators to alter every facet of the site - from a comprehensive experience creator which allows you to create new vacation experiences, add interactive galleries, realtime pricing structures and itineraries, through to a powerful blogging system, online calendar and brochure booking system. It means that The Leap can concentrate on what they’re good at rather than having to worry about spending time updating the site. It’s quick, easy to use and we’re pretty proud of it.

Take a look for yourself on by clicking here

Happy new year

Monday, January 5th, 2009

We hope your christmas break was as good as ours; we’re all back in the office now after a thoroughly satisfying, belt-loosening holiday.

It’s time to make those all-important new year’s resolutions and it may be time to look at how your business could be improved too. If you’re looking to get your business in shape, or dust the cobwebs off your marketing collateral with a facelift then give us a call and we’ll help you write the resolution list.

Offices closed

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2008

We’re taking a break for the holiday period (we think we’ve earned it) and our offices will be closed from 24th December until 5th January.

Our emergency support team will be still be contactable at your usual support email address.

Have a fantastic christmas, from everyone at Rapid Web and we’ll see you in the new year!

Merry Christmas!