Why Web Designers Often Skip Making Mobile Versions and What You Can Do About It

As a seasoned web designer or developer, you might have noticed that some designers don't bother creating a mobile version of a website. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon and provides insights on how to tackle this issue effectively.

The Importance of Mobile Design in Today's Market

It is often said that creating a mobile version of your website is optional. However, this statement couldn't be further from the truth. The continued growth of mobile device usage has made mobile design a crucial aspect of web design. In 2021, mobile traffic surpassed desktop traffic for the first time, marking a significant shift in user behavior. Therefore, having a mobile version of your website is not just an option but a necessity to ensure your site remains accessible and user-friendly across all devices.

The Role of Designers in Creating Responsive Designs

While some designers do create responsive designs, it is a common practice for them to delegate this task to front-end developers. Designers are primarily responsible for creating different layouts and specifications, including typography and grids. However, it is not uncommon for designers to assign some tasks to developers as well. This collaborative approach can help ensure efficiency and effectiveness in the development process. Personally, I always strive to have the final say in design decisions when I am working with a designer. If you are confident in your skills, you can create responsive designs without supervision. However, be sure to receive proper compensation for your work and receive credit from both the client and the designer.

Handling Mobile Versions in the Development Process

When a designer does not create an extra design for the responsive states, you have a few options. One approach is to create the mobile version with as little effort as possible and inform the client accordingly. This method is straightforward but may not meet the client's expectations for a high-quality user experience. Another option is to communicate to the client that if they want the responsive states to look good, they either need to pay extra for design decisions or provide an additional design for those states. It is crucial to be transparent about your expectations from the outset, ensuring that both parties are on the same page regarding the scope of work.

Collaboration and Efficiency

The relationship between designers and developers is often rooted in collaboration and trust. When you know the developer well and the design is simple enough, it can be beneficial to guide the developer in creating the responsive states. You can provide detailed instructions on how you envision the responsive design should look, such as 'make this bigger,' 'move this down,' and 'change the H1 to 133.' This method can save both parties time and resources. However, it is essential to establish clear communication channels and boundaries to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes.

Best Practices

To ensure a seamless and efficient development process, here are some best practices:

Communicate clearly with the designer or developer about the expected outcome and the scope of work. Provide detailed instructions and mockups for the responsive states. Establish clear credit and payment protocols for projects involving collaboration. Meet and collaborate regularly to align on design and development decisions. Document all changes and decisions to prevent misunderstandings.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your project stays on track and meets both the client's and your own high standards for design and development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to create a mobile version of a website is often a collaborative effort between designers and developers. While some designers may skip this step, it is crucial to address this issue proactively to ensure a high-quality user experience. By understanding the importance of mobile design and implementing best practices for collaboration and communication, you can navigate this challenge effectively and deliver outstanding results.

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