The text overlaying these backgrounds is barely readable and one must struggle to make sense of it. For general readability, especially if the site is text-heavy, as is the IALC, a high contrast between the type and background eases readability. A browser's default gray is low contrast and visually uninteresting. Programming for a white background is a good choice, especially if there are varied graphics throughout. They will read better as well.
Larger files take longer to load on browsers and keep visitors waiting.
Many users will become impatient and leave the site before the Web page has revealed itself. Minimizing the memory requirements of each Web page will pay off in higher visitation and use. Principal Internet Resources Cited in this Article 1. The IALC Home Page 2. Adobe Acrobat 4.