2013 has been declared the year of Responsive Design in many web circles. If you haven’t heard of Responsive Design yet, you will soon. The reason it was created and gaining popularity is because of the need to optimize websites on different devices. These include mobile, tablet, laptop & desktop, with the growth of the mobile and tablet markets being the driving force for Responsive Design.
As 2012 draws to an end, we have lots of new developments (“web developments,” that is) on the horizon for the coming year. Most important of these is that our new custom templates will feature Responsive Web Design, also known as RWD. Let’s review responsive design in 2013.
In a nutshell, Responsive Web Design is a design approach that optimizes the web browsing experience. This is no matter what web device you happen to be using — desktop, laptop, iPad or other small-screen device, or mobile phone.
In 2013, the number of people browsing the internet on tablets and smartphones will surpass traditional desktop users. Responsive Design ensures your website adjusts seamlessly to any device. It should offer a smooth, professional experience no matter how visitors find you.
With mobile browsing trends skyrocketing, having a site built with Responsive Design in 2013 isn’t just a luxury. It’s a necessity for keeping your audience engaged and growing your online presence.
We are in the process of finalizing the templates of our newest sites and will provide links, examples, and more information in early 2013. Stay tuned!
Vicki Beare (this is my new last name — as I mentioned, we had LOTS going on around here lately!)
Of all the areas of web design and development that I enjoy the most – our Web Design meetings really rank highly for the part they play in ensuring a great website result for the client. The key to great web design is the success of those meetings starts with analysis & research before the meeting, which can include reviewing the client’s business and marketing models , their current website, and industry leading websites for comparison and samples. Key communication actually starts in the sales cycle and should be in full “voice” – during the design meeting. Clients should be engaged in identifying their needs, aims and outcomes and the whole team (client and designer) should establish a collaborating process to ensure a successful outcome.
As we enter a new year, and many of our clients are reviewing their websites and marketing plans for 2012, I have found myself repeating this line above in both client and prospect meetings: It is not “Intent” it is “Content” that Google Ranks your website on.
Teaching a Web Content Management class recently I included a “jargon” take home test that was handed to our attendees at the end of the class. I have always been very sensitive to computer jargon since my college days – where I studied computer science. I actually have always been uncomfortable with using it – in particular when you know the jargon to be confusing to the person that is not an actual computer geek. It is important to learn the web jargon to empower yourself.
Over the last year in particular I have really become aware of the important connection between a website owner and their website. The arrival of Content Management Systems have provided website owners with the opportunity to update their websites directly. In my opinion (and most important), allowing the website owner to be an active participant in the process. Great websites require great team work.
If you were asked today how did your website perform this year could you give an informed, statistical answer? Websites are now a key component of most business. Understanding how this area performed, and what changes or improvements might be needed should be at least an annual part of business planning.
In the domain world (the world that is constantly changing). There are some handy domain tools that can help you keep ahead of the game. In particular, there is a website called “Snapnames.com” that provides several domain services. However, none greater than being able to place a backorder on an existing (and taken) domain name…
Analysis & Communication – A Key Ingredient in Designing A Great Website. Of all the areas of web design and development that I enjoy the most – our Web Design meetings really rank highly for the part they play in ensuring a great website result for the client. The key to those meetings is analysis before hand (usually the sales process and preparation for the design meeting). Then, great open communication with your client during the design meeting.
Have you ever visited a website that, the minute it opened, you said “Wow!” or “I like this site!”? I actually do this every time I visit a great looking website.