Accessibility, SEO, cross browser compatibility, progressive enhancement & graceful degradation, screen reader compatibility, cell phones, mobile devices and PDA's (we're talking about electronic handheld information devices...NOT a Public Display of Affection). By creating a web site with CSS/XHTML we focus on the things that matter today and prepare for tomorrow...
The Internet. The Net. The Web. Cyber Space. Digital Super Highway. What ever you call it, this ia an ever-changing medium. The constant flux of ones and zeros flying above our heads is the embodiment of what we call the World Wide Web. Unlike print, the web is dynamic, interactive and can be instantly changed with simple implementation of a new style sheet. Today’s technology allows us to work faster and more easily than ever.
At the same time, creating and designing for the web requires facing new, unforeseen challenges around ever corner. The simple fact is that because technology is ever changing, we as designers must be constantly learning. This is Web. Being constanly presented with these challenges is what makes it interesting. Overcoming and obstacle, to me, is the equivalent of leaping a giant hurdle or solving a mystery . All the pieces now fit in place, and suddenly everything makes sense! This is the reward.
As a web designer I have lead a path that could arguably be called "nerdy, geek-ish and tech savvy." To an extent I agree, lets face it, who wants to stare at code until your eyes pop out? For me, the challenges become more rewarding every time I pull off some spiffy, stylish technique... something until recently thought nearly impossible.