Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:02:31 +0000

If you aren't quite sure how to design for a mobile device, this is your chance find out what you need to know to be successful in this new arena. New Designers around the world are are beefing up their skill set by adding mobile design to their repertoire. Designing successfully for mobile platforms goes beyond pixels and colors. You've also got to have a great strategy. If you don't want to be that guy stuck in an early 2000's design rut (we all know a few people stuck in the 80's and 90's, right?), read on to learn how to become a successful mobile designer.

Mobile Web Design Tips

Wondering what the differences are between regular Web design and mobile Web design? How about what makes a mobile design successful? We asked two experts to share some mobile design insights in plain English.

Daimon Caulk, Principal, Modal, Inc.

Site: modalinc.com

Designing for the Mobile Web provides similar challenges to that of desktop-based, browser design. Of course the smaller screen (320 pixels minimum width) real estate is a challenge but it's also an opportunity to try new things. Don't be afraid to use rich photography or dark backgrounds as many of the devices have great resolution. And keep in mind context. Users of the site will likely be in a mobile scenario: in an airport, in a cab, waiting for a bus, sitting in a doctor's office, etc. So you should design with that in mind. For instance, if you're designing a site for a restaurant the address and phone number should be prominent. Next provide users with the menu and a link to book a reservation or place an order. Be conscious of the context and you'll create a useful site.

Dmitry Kislyuk, Developer, DudaMobile

Site: dudamobile.com

When designing a mobile website there are several things that need to be taken into account.The most critical decision is what to include in a mobile page. As real-estate is limited, it is important to understand what are the needs of the mobile user and design the page accordingly. Mobile users are typically on-the-go and placing information like telephone numbers, addresses and other call-to-actions in a visible place will be highly appreciated by the user. The variation in mobile screen resolutions poses a challenge for the web designer. Wherever possible we try to use percentages instead of fixed width for images and avoid horizontal lists with many items that would require left-right navigation which is typically harder to use on a mobile device.

Related Articles

• Expert Advice on Creating a Successful iPhone App
• How to Create a Successful Augmented Reality App
• Sapient's Rob Gonda on Successful iPhone Application Strategies

Other Mobile Web Design Resources

• Mobile Web Design Trends for 2009
  
• A Guide to Mobile Web Design Tips and Tricks
• Designing for the Mobile Web

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