Responsive Web Design, what is it - why should we use it?

What is Responsive Web Design?

Responsive web design is basically a website which can work on different screen sizes, for example on your laptop, mobile & tablet devices. It's the next big step in web design and is now being used widely due to the growth in mobile and tablet usage.

Responsive design is a combination of one URL, single content, one code and CSS3 media queries that equaling a website is usable and looks great on many devices.

To put it quite simply the media queries will determine the resolution of the device it is being used on. Even if you are using for example a desktop browser and re size the window by dragging it smaller or wider, the content of the web page will automatically re size to fit the window.

Key Features

• Flexible Grid
• Flexible Images
• CSS3 Media Queries and Screen Resolutions

Why you should use it?

You should seriously consider switching to responsive website design. With all these new devices popping up on the market with different screen sizes, it's important that you have a website that adapts. After all you don't want to appear outdated, and alienate visitors of your site. When you have a responsive website you can rest assured that it will look great on all devices whether it's a smart phone, tablet, e-reader, laptop or desktop.

Advantages of Responsive Web Design

• Saves money
• Saves time
• Improved search engine optimisation
• Better performance
• Wider browser support

2013 -  the year of Responsive Website Design?

Many companies have recognised the importance of responsive website design, due to witnessing the shift in the consumption habits of their target audience.

The sale of PCs has dropped since the beginning of 2012 with people opting to buy tablets instead.  Tablet sales are expected to exceed 100 million this year. Smart phones are also still in high demand strengthening the shift to mobile.

What about Mobile Apps?

Building an App may seem like a good solution for the increase in mobile phone usagae, and it is definitely worth doing if it suits your business. However you still need Responsive Web Design, and here's why - imagine all the different platforms an app could be used on. You could probably build an app to reach most of these platforms but not all of them. A responsive mobile website should therefore be of upmost priority.

why not read more about the Responsive Website Design services we offer here at PS Website Design