Should my clients expect their websites to work on iPhone without paying for a mobile version?

Question

I make websites. Should my clients expect their websites to work on iPhone/iPad without paying for a mobile version?

Answer 1

I'd say as long as you don't use Flash/Silverlight/etc., then the sites should be fine. If it's absolutely necessary, they should be able to request a mobile-formatted version from you.

Answer 2

I'd say that this is something that you should know up front so you don't make decisions that will make it impossible. You'd also need to know whether they mean that it should simply work in Safari or that it should have a mobile-specific interface that shows on the iPhone. If they mean the latter, then you should factor that into the scope of work at an additional cost. A reasonably developed web site should be functional on the iPhone, though not necessarily optimal, as long as you avoid technologies that aren't supported. There will be a trade-off for this and it may end up in different functionality.

To me, the bottom line is that its your responsibility to understand the client's expectations and explain the trade-offs. Asking if they need a mobile-specific site should be a standard question for web developers today. Having this conversation upfront will help manage expectations and guide your development decisions.

Answer 3

In most web design offers I consult, supported browsers are specified with version numbers.

I guess you have a contract between your customers and you right ?

Do the same. Charge for the extra work.

Answer 4

I go in McDonalds and say 1 McVeggie with extra cheese - he charges me more for that "extra cheese".

Same goes in this case. Mobified version of website is a tough thing. As there are more device type then menu option in your browser.

User would prefer a mobile version of his / her site only if the thing is working well or is having specific (mobile) end users.

I both the case they have a reason to pay.

and from your part - agreeing to give the service - need to decide on what you charge or you charge or not -

Complexity and scope of the website / project

Use of RIA components & technologies

Device types user need the mobified version for.

Maintenance / Management / Hosting of that mobified version

Answer 5

If it means more work, charge for it. That's the bottom line.