Things to keep in mind when making responsive web apps

A web app is an application or software program, stored on a remote server that a user can access and run within a browser. Some of the examples of web apps include Facebook, Twitter, Google Docs, Pixlr, Netflix, Trello, etc. However, it is responsive web apps that have more value and potential.

Such applications can be used in a browser of any viewport size. In simple words, if you are comfortable with the UI of the app and can easily use it even after adjusting or changing the window size, then it means that the app has a responsive design. Such designs are no longer an option, but a compulsion these days because more and more people across the globe are transitioning towards the smartphone culture.

According to some statistics, the number of active smartphone users in 2019 was beyond 3 Billion worldwide. As such, if the design of a web app is not responsive, then it will not be compatible or easy to navigate on a smartphone browser. This will result in a loss of massive economic opportunities and conversions.

There is no doubt that website apps have become the need. But, what are those things that should be kept in mind when making such apps? Before answering this question, let’s first check why they are such a big deal.

Why Responsive Website Applications Have an Edge?

There are a lot of benefits that are exclusive to website applications only.

• They can run like a normal application on a browser irrespective of the operating system whether it is iOS, Android, Windows Phone, or Blackberry.
• They can run like a normal application on a browser irrespective of the device-type whether it is the smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
• Advantage of more mobile traffic that can attract more engagements and conversions.
• Faster pages provided that modern performance methods have been implemented like caching.
• Reduced Bounce, improved SEO, and convenient reporting of analytics are some other great benefits.

Now, let’s move towards the prime topic of this blog.

Important things when making Responsive Web Apps

A lot of things go down into the checklist when the development of responsive web apps is in the process.

Visible Content: It is necessary to check whether the content of the application is visible or not. If the navigation bar or heading text is too big to hide the content, then it should be adjusted to a suitable size that makes the content evident and readable.

CTA Button: It is very important to keep in mind that the Call-to-action button is clear and visible. All CTA buttons in the application are responsible for the user-engagement and conversions. If it is not noticeable, then converting visitors into leads will become quite difficult and complex.

Padding & Text: While developing a website application, it should be ensured that the padding size is reduced in such a way so that more room is available for the content.

Images: It is vital to keep in mind that the images and graphics used are also visible enough in such a way so that a user can establish a connection between such images and the content. But resizing the images is recognized as one of the complex challenges that can be addressed by using the max-width property of CSS.

Basic Issues: Avoiding some basic issues and problems as provided below can also help in the long-term.

• No browser-supported.
• No element queries.
• Images not standardized.

Collecting Feedbacks: It is beneficial to conduct brainstorming sessions so that vital feedback can be exchanged between developers, designers, etc. for improving the layout and design for better engagement

Quick Tips for making Responsive Web Apps

Developing efficient and responsive website apps is like investing to promote the scope of business operations and activities. But it comes with a challenge that demands time, resources, and knowledge to take effect. Some quick tips that can help in the effective development are-

• Having clear specifications before initiating the development process.
• Building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) before the final product.
• Providing sufficient and good tools for development and designing.
• The technology or tools adopted should not restrict or limit the long-term strategy.

REFERENCES:

Kappert, L. (2013, June 12). Facing The Challenge: Building A Responsive Web Application. SMASHING MAGAZINE. https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2013/06/building-a-responsive-web-application/

O’Dea, S. (2020, February 28). Smartphone users worldwide 2020. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/330695/number-of-smartphone-users-worldwide/