Responsive Web Design Part4

 Here’s an example: imagine that you’re designing a website that looks like this (I’m sure you’ve worked with similar layouts before):

The crucial part of this example is the identification of groups of elements that must stay together for any layout. For example, all the navigation links must stay together, because otherwise they would make no sense. This is a module, a section of information that can be moved around among st the other modules without losing its meaning.

 Building your site with these modules in mind makes it easy to imagine how your layout will adapt for different view port sizes. For instance:

See how although the modules are in different places, they still display the same information as the original, just in a form more easily digested by mobile devices or other, differently-sized browsers. There isn’t anything you will have to change in your layout to make this modularity work, it’s just a different way to look at the same image. Hopefully though, this new perspective will help you make more informed decisions as you work on your future design projects.

Cost:

“Having a web site developed with responsive design is more costly up front. You can typically plan on about 25% cost increase over regular web site. The reason being is that it takes more planning in the development phase – in essence you are designing the site 3 times. Think of it this way, small = phone, medium = tablet, and large = traditional laptop/desktop. The beauty of it is that you can target your messaging based on the device the viewer is using and manage it without having to worry about how it will look – that has been done already. You also are able to present ALL of the content in your web site without limiting navigation or pages. It is going to present the page depending on the device, with a mobile web site you are limited in pages (sticking to the top 5 – 7 page rule). Like with anything choosing the right solution depends on your needs/wants. Responsive is not the perfect solution for all web sites but a good majority would benefit from it. It will save you time and money because you are not designing for MANY platforms –android, blackberry, ipad, iphone etc etc. what happens when a new device comes out? Responsive design takes the stress away knowing you have a web site that is working at its optimal level on all devices. And its sexy.”

Conclusion:
Like so much on the internet, Responsive Web Design is evolutionary, not revolutionary. It’s simply the natural next step for the web, not a complete rethinking of everything. As designers, we must continually adapt our workflows, and this time is no different. Responsive Web Design is the future, or at least, it will be when developers and designers alike embrace it. As web designers and developers, we are the only ones with the power to see this wonderful new standard come to fruition. Make it happen, for you, for me, for the internet at large!