Mobile Websites
Mobile websites are websites that operate ONLY on mobile devices such as an iPhone, Samsung, SmartPhone, iPad, Tablet, etc. The problem moving forward with this exclusive mode of programming and developing is that you require two websites. This becomes problematic when it comes to changes and updates because of the obvious reason that you will have to update both websites each time you make any changes or upgrades.
Responsive Websites
Responsive websites are desktop and laptop based websites that are coded in such a sophisticated way with CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), HTML5, JavaScript and AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) that they actually “respond” and adapt to the size of the screen or type of device that the end user is using. The CSS is coded to adjust the layout of the website to conform to the device that the website is being viewed through. The navigation system changes, and unnecessary elements are removed in place of more device appropriate content. Therefore, you only need one website, and you only have to update one website! This is like having a one-size-fits-all “mobile website” and “desktop website.”
Desktop Websites
Desktop websites are obviously websites that only function properly when viewed with a desktop PC, Macintosh or laptop with a large screen (1024 X 768). These websites can be viewed on mobile devices if there is no reliance on Flash animation within the website, but they will be cumbersome and awkward to navigate since the user will have to pinch and zoom to use the navigation menu and to read content. This becomes very annoying, and annoyed users tend to make an exit fairly quickly (especially in this day and age of speed and convenience).
If your company or business requires a website upgrade based on this information, please feel free to contact Creation Designs in Chilliwack, BC for a free estimate and to discuss your responsive web design and development project requirements.