The document evaluates the debate between responsive and adaptive web design techniques, highlighting the importance of adaptation in modern web design. Responsive design focuses on layout adjustments for different devices, while adaptive design alters content based on user context, including device and location. Ultimately, adaptation is deemed essential for meeting client and user needs, making it a critical concept in contemporary web design.

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF
ADAPTATION
IN THE MODERN ADOPTION
OF
RESPONSIVE DESIGN
David Stump | DePaul University | May 2012

2. Responsive Vs. Adaptive Debate
This project evaluates the current debate among many web designers
between responsive and adaptive web design techniques. The aim is to
discuss the debate and examine the importance of design adaptation in
modern web design.

3. Responsive Design
 Coined by Ethan Marcotte in A Book Apart
series
 Centers on belief that user should have same
experience no matter the device used
 Focuses on adjusting the layout of a design
to fit the resolution of the device/media

4. Adaptive Design
 Definitive work on technique by Aaron
Gustafson
 Centers on the belief that design and content
should be altered based on context of user
 Context includes
device, location, orientation, history, etc.
 Context information should be used in
crafting user experience

5. Responsive vs. Adaptive
Design
Responsive Design - Layout Adaptive Design – Content

6. Findings
 Adaptive is not a competitor or alternative to
responsive design
 Instead, it is the evolution of responsive
design
 Using all user context available is essential to
web design
 Most important technique in modern design is
adaptation
 A designer must adapt to client needs, user
needs and user context

7. Adapt Or Die
Adaptation is the most important concept in modern web design. A good
design adapts to fit the client needs, the user needs and adjusts the
experience based on the context of the user – including device
used, device orientation, geolocation, browser capability, user history and
more.

8. Project Timeline
 05/02/2012 – Submit Project Proposal
 05/16/2012 – Present Project Progress
 05/30/2012 – Submit Project Presentation
 06/06/2012 – Final Project Report Due
 Presentation References
 Marcotte, E. 2011. Responsive Web Design. A Book
Apart, New York, NY.
 Gustafson, A. 2011. Adaptive Web Design. Easy
Readers, LLC, Chattanooga, TN.
 Web Devices – http://bradfrostweb.com/
 Dodo Bird Marketing –
http://conversationmarketing.com