The purpose of web standards is to identify a path through which different software can be linked together through the exchange of information. This allows the web to become a flexible and friendly ally for the web user, both technical and non technical.
The user experience is of key consequence when it comes to the web. For starters, any company online to be interested in web standards would be an interesting proposition as you cover your basics right away.
With conforming to web standards, the search rankings of your website are likely to improve, which in turn would give you access to a larger audience; your page will be accessible on a lot more devices, (not just your PC, screenreaders for visually challenged, mobile devices etc,), this in turn would make your website more compliant with accessibility guidelines; the site is then easier on maintenance; and basing your web development on standards will also give you a clear edge when it comes to savings( your bandwidth cost is reduced) which will naturally give you the return that you are looking for on your investment.
Websites built on standards also become naturally compatible with future technological developments, allowing easier access to newer innovations and codes. Making you better poised for development and growth.
Web standards relate to not only the technology used to build website, but also the way in which the technology is applied. For instance, HTML 4.0 which was the previous standard for the web is still being widely used even in the availability of XHTML and CSS. HTML now in comparison is poorly written and wrought with errors, (which is why some websites look cluttered). The authors and clients sometimes miss out on this as they view it on dominant browsers which does not allow them to wake up and smell the coffee!
So it’s clearly essential websites are developed keeping semantically sound markups and code that is accessible. This will not only allow you to have a better product, but also ensure your organization and staff enjoys the slick design and working in a quality environment.
So if you are hiring the services of a web designer you should be keeping in mind that your product be delivered in keeping with web standards; for not just a great look, but a sure shot return on investment.