will argue over the technical side of web design and discuss the minutia and nuance of HTML and CSS on end. But when it comes down to it, the most critical factor of a successful website is usability. Studies have shown that websites that flow well, look clean, and require less input from the user often generate more consumer traffic than their competition.

This approach to web design that focuses on an optimal viewing experience is called “responsive web design.” Responsive web sites are easy to read and navigate with a minimum amount of resizing, panning, and scrolling from the user to get to the desired content. They also maintain this consistent optimal design when viewed across a range of devices, from your typical desktop computers to the many phone and device options.

Responsive web design employs CSS 3 media queries with fluid proportion grounded over grids. This means that rather than using pixels to define where objects are placed, it uses percentages and Ems, such that the website will adapt to the viewing environment layout of multiple devices. When the website is viewed on a small screen, there is less resizing, scrolling, and panning. Altogether, responsive web design should include these key elements to enhance the viewing experience:

• Custom-made style sheets using CSS 3 media queries and media query listeners
• A scalable grid-based layout that using percentages and ems instead of pixels
• Images, media, and web content that uses dynamic scaling to adjust size

Without responsive web design, content is likely to be shrunk to the size of the display screen. This experience can frustrate potential customers with miniscule text, inaccessible links, and endless scrolling. Consumers have higher and higher usability expectations, and the ability to zoom in on content is not enough to meet them. The difference between a page that is scaled and laid out to maximize readability and usability and one that isn’t can mean the difference between a sale for you and a sale for a competitor.

Responsive web design has become increasingly important in a time when static design layouts are not enough anymore to accommodate the growing users of varying devices. The changing web landscape requires a layout that is fluid and responsive so your consumers can easily access your content whether they are using a PC, tablet device, mobile phone, or television or video game console browser.

Call us at 484-892-5713 or Contact Us today to learn more why to give top priority to developing responsive web design for your business.