Today’s post is all about “designing for mobile.” The changing needs of our clients demand that we provide the latest design technology. One of these new trends is all about “mobile-first” design. This method provides more functionality within the website platform. Mobile-first means the user will have a great web experience no matter what device they may be using. Those who are not willing or just not prepared to change from a user interface, (UI Design) to a more mobile design strategy may suffer.
UI Design versus UX Design (explanation and definition):
A “user interface design” refers to a website which is more dynamic and offers a customized user experience (each site specifically designed to provide a result for the individual company. The website will be stylish, interactive and easy to use. The UI platform uses color, minimal graphics, great typography, and relevant images. A UX design process involves “user experience design.” Both UI and UX design work closely together to create the finished product. Learn more about the differences between UI design versus UX design. The UX design makes adjustments to content based on input from the user. For example, a user might input their city location and the website will adjust the content to that city.
Changes in the design process today:
Going to a more mobile design strategy involves changing to a buttonless screen. Instead of CTAs (call to action menu buttons), the mobile developer is choosing to use a more conceptual method of design to perform various tasks. Mobile-first designers are now using simple animations which are based on a gesture instead of having a button as in the past. This new method can deliver a more modern and updated look and appeal. As our screens become larger, we can expect this trend to continue.
Designing for mobile end users:
Forbes is reporting this year that mobile devices are completely taking over the internet They are responsible for more than 52% of the global internet traffic. Every designer must consider the way the devices are being used for shopping online and for browsing the web. There are some rules which should be obeyed for mobile design.
If your end users are working from their desks, they can use the normal computer screen during their work hours. However, those that are not must be taken into account. These folks may be using their mobile devices for online shopping or on their work commutes. They may use their mobile devices as they exercise, or in public places. End users might be networking with others, passing the time or simply looking to be entertained. Developers must take all of this into consideration when designing for mobile. The design should focus on whatever task is at hand.
Designing using “responsive design strategy.”
Early in the design process, the developer determines if he or she is designing for multiple screen sizes or for only one size. We prefer to use a responsive design strategy for all new website design project and this includes one responsive layout. When the website is completed, it will respond to all devices being used and will look great on all screen sizes.
Understanding the adaptive design strategy:
GUI or graphical user Interface is referred to as “adaptive design.” Using this method allows the design to adapt to different screen sizes. The developer must provide several fixed layouts for consideration. The responsive design, on the other hand, uses a single layout and moves dynamically. The adaptive design is usually very expensive since it takes more time to develop multiple layouts. The designer might provide six sample layouts to cover the six most common screen widths which are 320, 480, 760, 960, 1200 and 1600 pixels. This is additional work and priced higher than responsive design. Smaller companies on a budget usually do not choose this type of design and development.
Mobile-first the advantages:
Mobile-first is about looking good and functioning well, regardless of screen size. The user experience must come first. The overall look and feel and how easily you can navigate a site will determine the value of the website. A visitor should experience no frustration or confusion when browsing the site. The content should be very minimal and bulleted lists are best. And, of course, the website should respond automatically to the device being used to browse it, i.e. phone, pad, or desktop.
Thanks for stopping by .. hurry back for part two. Staff Writer
