Going Responsive by Karen McGrane
Summary of the book:
- Make the case: Benefits of responsive design.
Responsive design is a must for modern web design as we are able to view online resources through an ever increasing range of devices with different screen resolutions.
The transition of web design onto mobile devices began with m dot sites as web traffic through mobile devices was insignificant in comparison to desktop traffic.
M dot sites are inefficient as there is a delay from the server when retrieving the m dot site. Whereas, a responsive web design snaps to the flexible grid system - dependent on the size of the screen.
It’s more efficient for businesses to go responsive as they do not need to redesign the site for every new device that is released onto the market.
Adaptive design is when the content within the site changes depending on which device it is being viewed on.
- Speed: Slow sites affect the user experience of your business/brand.
People tend to take less action on their mobile device, according to the statistics, many transactions are completed within stores or on desktop.
Only have the necessary content on your website - this is the reason behind a mobile first method of design. Too much content can make your site harder to navigate and decreases user interest.
Use images which are saved for web and have smaller resolutions.
- Content: Declutter content, structure and prioritise.
There needs to be a hierarchy of the content within the page. Cutting down on content enables the user to have better navigation though out the site.
- Collaborate:
Prototyping allows the designer to show the functionality of the design. This is important when working with the business and gives the coders something more tangible in the process of building their responsive website.
In responsive design, breakpoints are the point a which your sites content will respond to provide the user with the best possible layout to consume the information.
- Test and Measure
Support: Widest possible audience can view the website without expecting every user will see the exact same thing. Making sure users can complete their task.
Ensuring the site works across all devices prioritised devices - browsers, operating systems & screen sizes.