There are now a dizzying array of smartphone, tablet, and laptop screen sizes and types. It is now quite impractical for web designers to create varying layouts for every kind of screen.
Fortunately, there is an answer to the proliferation of screen sizes and types for web designers. It is called “responsive web design” (RWD). Now, the same set of code can appropriately display on browsers of all kinds, whether they be desktop, tablet, or smartphone desplays. RWD is fortunately the “magic bullet” that has the flexibility to adapt layouts to every screen size. Likewise, every type of screen can be accommodated, whether it be on a desktop/laptop or on a mobile device.
RWD brings to web browsers the fluidity to display, for example, three columns of text on a desktop display and just one column on a mobile phone.
In fact, the demand for RWD capability is rapidly expa nding as the range of displays extends even further. Large screen TVs are also used for Internet browsing, and such televisions grow larger and larger. Now, 60-inch and even 80-inch screens proliferate. In business, corporate presentations require the capacity to properly display web pages in critical corporate meetings.
At the other extreme, the need for web functionality is increasing in vehicles. Every major auto manufacturer has introduced infotainment systems and Internet connectivity features. As a result, these display platforms need to be considered as well.
“Mobile First” Design
Mobile Responsive Web Design is increasingly being built around finger movements and gestures. Until only recently, website conceptualization was cursor-based, and touch-screen adaptation came after the fact.
Inevitably, web designers will go “mobile first” as mobile device usage dramatically expands. Already, about one-fifth of users access the Internet primarily on their smartphone or other mobile device. The one billionth Android device will be activated in 2013. The “bring your own device”, or BYOD movement, is rapidly altering Internet use on the job.
Consistent Web Experience
RWD becomes more important in an era in which individuals may get into the habit of repeatedly visiting the same web site using a diverse array of devices. The user will expect, justifiably, that his/her experience will remain at the same high level across devi ces.
Finally, when RWD is performed well, simpler functionality and navigation should accrue. For many enterprises, this should translate into increased conversions. Also, responsive web design introduces a new discipline to the work of web designers. They are forced at every juncture to focus first on the most important content to be conveyed.
We at Vision House Digital welcome the opportunity to demonstrate how mobile-optimized web designs can advance your enterprise. Please contact us today.
