HTML frames - Checklist

* Any website constructed using frames must include a noframes alternative
* Any website constructed using frames must be usable on a browser that cannot render frames
* Each frame must be named
* Frames should not be multiply nested within frames
* Do not rely on the frames environment for website navigation
* Navigational elements should be included on each individual web document
* All links outside the website should be loaded into the top-level window: avoid displaying other websites framed by yours

Summary

The use of frames in a website is a source of some contention. Some Web managers have been under the impression that they should not be used at all. Others have employed them without proper consideration for their implication for their whole user community.Frames are part of the HTML4.01 specification and the WAI, which means that they can be used by most browsers and users.

If frames are implemented correctly they can be a useful technique for designing the user interface. If used incorrectly, they can make a website incomprehensible and very difficult to navigate around.