Just a few short years ago, it was only necessary for websites to be viewable on standard computer monitors. Now, things have changed in a major way, and brought about a concept known as responsive web design. Since the dawn of the Internet, web developers have carefully tested their finished products across multiple browsers and operating systems. It’s now a good idea to test them across various devices, as well.
As the name suggests, responsive web design is based on efforts to create websites that are just as functional whether they’re being viewed on a mobile phone, standard computer or tablet device. Keep reading to find out why this emerging trend deserves attention.
Tablet Usage is On the Rise
Near the end of 2012, the PC Advisor website mentioned that tablet shipments for the year might top out at over 122 million. As technology improves, tablet dimensions are shrinking and retail prices are dropping, leading to a near constant demand.
To compensate, many developers have created apps that allow tablet users to smoothly participate in activities such as reading the news, making a grocery list or finalizing travel plans. However, in the case of the first diversion, a study by the Pew Research Center found that, if given a choice, 60% of people who access news websites on their tablet would prefer to do so by navigating directly to a website, instead of relying on an app.
Data like that provides strong evidence of the need for developers to focus their attention on using responsive web design to create a destination that looks great across all platforms, then use their energy to create an app if time allows.
Device Detection: A Hallmark of Responsive Web Design
Back in the early days of the Internet, you likely visited some websites that included a landing page, along with specifics about which monitor settings to use for an ideal viewing experience. Things have evolved significantly now, so that instead of a user having to make alterations to their device upon visiting a certain website, responsive web design automatically detects how they are accessing content, and adjusts itself accordingly. This is just one of many ways that someone can enjoy a more streamlined browsing experience, especially if they regularly access one website across multiple platforms.
Enough Devices to Make Your Head Spin
If you’ve ever spent more than five minutes in a mobile phone store, you’re already well aware that new portable devices with Internet connectivity capabilities are emerging on the market at a frenetic pace.
Some webpage statistic counters break down the number of users to indicate whether they’re accessing content on a mobile device or through traditional methods. In some cases, the numbers may be staggering. In November of 2012 for example, the Mashable.com website was accessed by more than 2,000 distinctive devices.
The tide is turning, and it has become essential to build websites in ways that provide a unified user experience whether they are being viewed on a handheld device or desktop computer. Failure to do so could not only sacrifice website traffic, but also make web designers fall behind the curve and struggle in a perpetually competitive industry that’s propelled by the changing media landscape.
Frank Duke is an avid blogger nationwide. Want to start your own online business? At HungryPiranha.org you can find the information on building your online business. Check out the articles at http://www.hungrypiranha.org/blog for tips and advice.
