Anyone that has dealt with clients in any field has become familiar with the odd requests that usually don’t make any sense. In web design, there are too many to list. Today we will focus on CSS scrolll bars (overflow:auto).
A client quotes:
“Users will be confused if they have to scroll”
This is not true. Market studies have basically proved that scrolling is universally accepted as a standard element in the web experience.
However, it is YOUR website. It is understandable that you might want your website to be contained on the screen without having to scroll, but there is a huge difference between not scrolling the screen and using a CSS scroll bar.
The CSS scroll bar requires the user to focus on the containing element before the mouse wheel or keyboard page buttons will work.
Random scroll bars in the middle of the site just don’t look good in general. Some sites are designed around them and they can work, if done correctly.
The internet is not exactly brand new. Most people are very familiar with basic web navigation. To say they will be confused if they have to scroll is like saying they are too stupid to enter your domain in the browser. Have faith in your viewers.
Take a look at the internet giants of today. Google, Facebook, Amazon, Ebay, Buy, New York Times, Craigslist, etc… All scroll. They all have quite a bit of content delivered to the viewer, but none make use of the CSS scroll bar. It stands as a testament to the user. They will figure it out.
On the flip side, CSS scroll bars can be used appropriately. Some sites are heavy on graphics and the design calls for a static overlay in a tight area. In this case, the CSS scroll bar is often the only option for long lists or information. The important part is knowing when the design of the site should call for a CSS scroll bar. In most cases, it is best to just let the page flow.
When in doubt, consult with a web design firm. We’ve seen so many projects, we live our lives on the edge of breaking news in standards, design, functionality, marketing, usability, and quality, and it’s our job to know. We will be able to tell you if your site should scroll, or if a CSS option is the best way to go.
