Responsive Design - first look

  • Because of the "mobile first" approach
    • Write styles that will work on all platforms then add the conditions for larger screens
    • Graceful Degradation vs. Progressive Enhancement
      • Graceful degradation - design functions on as many browsers and platforms as possible
        • Full, standard website would scale back and gradually remove content and features as the viewport became smaller and the system simpler
      • Progressive enhancement - best foot forward on the mobile platform providing an amazing experience that both looks great and functions perfectly. Site can gradually be “enhanced” and even completely rethought for larger platforms with fewer constraints.
      • It's easier to start with the most constrained platform and then add more robust features as you move to more powerful devices
      • Read Mobile First Design: Why It’s Great and Why It Suck