My Journey with Mobile First: Choosing A Responsive Framework (Part V)

When it comes to developing a responsive website, the first order of business is to select the right framework. There are several options to choose from, each one supplying the CSS source code to create a responsive grid. Some frameworks also include cross-browser compatibility solutions, stylized CSS classes, and even Javascript components.

That being said, no two frameworks are exactly alike. So how do you know which one is right for your project?

Currently, three of the most popular frameworks are Skeleton, Bootstrap, and Foundation. Let's take a quick look at each.


Skeleton

As the name suggests, Skeleton is a bare-bones framework. It only offers the basics and lacks CSS and Javascript components available in other frameworks.

However, Skeleton is a solid choice if your project requires a lightweight framework or needs to be developed quickly. In addition, if you are new to responsive web design, Skeleton is a great way to get your feet wet.

One final item to note about Skeleton is that it is based on a 16 column grid, whereas Bootstrap and Foundation utilize a 12 column grid. This is not necessarily a drawback; just something to consider when deciding on the right framework.

My Journey with Mobile First: Hidden Superpowers (Part IV)

Initially, as an outsider to the mobile first and responsive web design world, I thought those concepts would greatly increase my work load. After all, we're talking about designing for multiple devices, right?

The truth is, though, that I find mobile first web design so much fun. In addition, it possess certain aspects that give me some web designer "superpowers."

So without further adieu, here are three reasons why I love mobile first and responsive web design (RWD):


1. It's Just Dang Fun!

Why do I find mobile first so enjoyable? Well, until recently, designers would create a fabulous design for one medium - the PC. And that was all well and good. But now, via RWD, we can also create variations of that same design to shine on tablets and mobile phones as well.

Not to mention, people can now view our designs anywhere and anytime they choose!

I mean, come on now...as a designer, that's just cool!

My Journey with Mobile First: Biting the Bullet (Part I)

Mobile first web design is all the rage - and rightly so. A recent report from Forrester estimates that there will be one billion smartphones in use by 2016. Once upon a time, the PC was the main device used to access the Internet. Today, it's simply a device - and one that will be soon be in the minority compared to smartphones and tablets.

Yes, the landscape of the Internet is drastically changing - making the mobile first model a must. Yet, while the concept is certainly gaining traction, only a small number of web designers and businesses have embraced it.