Building a Truly World Wide Web: A Review of the Essentials of International Communication    

Though the Web knows no borders, linguistic, cultural, technological and legal barriers have confined most of the Web's growth to the United States. Only by addressing these challenges will Web authors reach a truly worldwide audience. This review of contemporary literature examines the current demographics of Web usage and the challenges these demographics reveal. Next, I describe some of the prevailing maxims guiding Web authors, and other technical communicators involved in the creation of World Wide Web content with the intent of reaching international audiences, and explain how and why these approaches are effective. Finally, I address contemporary thought on what can be achieved by making the World Wide Web a true international medium.

Arnold, Mitchell D. Technical Communication Online (1998). Articles>Web Design>International

Cultural Implications of International Web Development

Much like the linguistic challenges, culture and law are important considerations for the international Web author. What is accepted as entertainment in one country might be considered blasphemous in another. Standards in content organization which are expected in one country might be ignored in another. Considering the diversity of cultures and their legal systems, the potential for troublesome scenarios is virtually endless. Therefore, when a medium crosses so many borders so quickly and with relative ease, cultural and legal clashes are imminent.

Arnold, Mitchell D. MitchArnold.com (2001). Design>Web Design>Cultural Theory