Responsive design, as MDN explains (external site, opens in a new tab), lets a page adapt to different screen sizes so the same address works on a phone, tablet and computer. It matters because most visits in Namibia are on phones, and Google indexes the mobile version of your site. It is the standard way to build a site today.
Phone
One column, big buttons.
Tablet
Two columns.
Computer
Full layout.
Why it matters
Google uses the mobile version of a page for indexing and ranking (see mobile-first indexing (external site, opens in a new tab)). A site that is hard to use on a phone loses visitors and can lose visibility.
A practical example
A restaurant menu shown in three columns on a computer becomes one easy-to-read column on a phone, with a large call button, using the same web address.
How to check yours
- Open the site on your own phone, not only a computer.
- Rotate it and check that nothing is cut off.
- Tap every button and phone link.
- Check that text is readable without zooming.
Common mistakes
- Tiny text and buttons that are hard to tap.
- Pop-ups that cover the page on a phone.
- A separate, out-of-date mobile site.
- Testing only on a computer.
Common questions
Is responsive the same as mobile-friendly?
Responsive design is the usual way to achieve a mobile-friendly site. See our guide on why mobile-friendly websites matter.
Do I need a separate mobile site?
No. One responsive site is easier to maintain and avoids duplicate content.
Will it affect my SEO?
Google indexes the mobile version, so a poor phone experience can hurt visibility. Responsive design does not guarantee rankings.
How do I know if my site is responsive?
Open it on a phone and a computer. If the layout adapts and stays easy to use, it is responsive.
Need help with this?
Optional. You do not need any ADA service to use what you have just read.
- Business website design
Every site we build is designed for phones first. - Website redesign
Make an old site work on phones.