Responsive website design is the modern standard for website design. It refers to websites that are designed to change to suit the device they’re being viewed on. Whether you’re using a computer, tablet, or mobile phone, a responsive website will adapt to provide an optimal experience for your device. On this page we discuss responsive important responsive website considerations.
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What is a Responsive Website?
A responsive website is a website that changes to suit the device being used to access the website. The idea behind responsive website design is that by adapting to the different screen sizes on different devices, people using the website can always enjoy an optimal experience. The goal is to alleviate the need for manual intervention by the user in order to see website content or access website functionality – for example, the need to zoom in to read the text if viewing the website on a mobile device.
Responsive website design recognises that the immersive experience available on a larger screen (e.g. a computer screen) is not possible on a smaller device like a mobile phone. In addition to optimising the presentation of website content in the design process, content may also be selectively removed from smaller-screen views to further enhance the user experience.
How Do Responsive Websites Work?
Responsive websites work by detecting the screen size of the device they are being accessed on, and adjusting the display of website content to optimise the display of information on that particular screen. An important case is mobile-friendly website design. With more people accessing websites on mobile devices than ever before, it’s very important to ensure that your beautiful website translates to the smaller screen to create a positive impression. A responsive website is the solution to this problem.
Alternatives to Responsive Websites
Responsive websites aren’t the only way to solve the challenge of website content being accessed across a variety of different devices. For example, different versions of a website can be created and served to different devices (e.g. a mobile version, and a computer version). However, there are considerations (efficiency, management) to take into account. For this reason, our work utilises a responsive website approach, which solves the device challenge in an efficient, effective way, creating a consistent brand experience across all modern devices.
Mobile-First Design
Mobile-first design is a response to the growing prevalence of mobile phone use. Historically, responsive website design started with designs suitable for a computer screen which became smaller and smaller, finally with a version suitable for mobile phones. Mobile-first design works the other way around, with primary design decisions being based on the smaller screen – first. By prioritising the mobile device in this way, website designs are better orientated to the future, in anticipation of the growing trend to mobile phone usage.
How to Check if a Website is Responsive
If you’re wondering how to check if a website is responsive, here are two easy ways:
1. Using a Computer
Resize your browser and watch how the website reacts. A responsive website will ‘shrink’ as your browser contracts. If the website doesn’t change at all, it isn’t responsive.
1. Using a Hand-Held Device
Rotate the device and compare the portrait and landscape viewing modes. A responsive website will change, adapting to the different views. A non-responsive website will not adapt.
How Much Does a Responsive Website Cost?
Website design is a project, and the extent of the project, and what is included in it, will determine the cost. We use a Project Design Stage to help work together with you to determine what’s involved in your project, how long it will take, and how much it will cost.
What’s the Best CMS for a Responsive Website?
Most modern CMS support responsive websites. CMS selection is part of our website design process, which includes determining the best CMS for a range of criteria, including the presentation of brand and website content. WordPress is a popular choice for SMEs with a flexibility and ease-of-use that makes content management a breeze.
Responsive Website Optimisation
Responsive website optimisation extends through all aspects of the website design. Code, content and functionality must all be strategically reviewed in conjunction with the purpose of the site for an optimal presentation. What works for one website may not work well for another, different website. If your business or organisation is considering a responsive website, or looking for assistance with website management, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re here to assist.