How do you handle browsers and devices that don't support responsive design?

2 Provide fallbacks and alternatives

Fallbacks and alternatives are ways to handle situations where a certain feature or resource is not supported. For example, if you use a web font that is not compatible with some browsers, specify a generic font family or system font as a fallback in your CSS. Similarly, if you use an image format that is not widely supported, such as WebP, provide a JPEG or PNG alternative in your HTML. You can also use polyfills, which are scripts that emulate or replace missing features, like CSS Grid or Flexbox, in older browsers. However, only use polyfills when necessary, as they can add extra weight and complexity to your website.

3 Test and debug your website

Testing and debugging your website is essential to ensure it works well on different browsers and devices. Tools and methods that allow you to simulate various scenarios include browser emulators, device labs, remote debugging, and cross-browser testing services. Also use web standards and best practices, such as valid HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, to avoid errors and compatibility issues. And performance optimization techniques, like minifying, compressing, and caching your resources, can help you improve the speed and efficiency of your website.

4 Inform and educate your users

Informing and educating your users is another way to handle old browsers and devices that don't support responsive design. Use polite and helpful messages to notify your users when their browser or device is outdated or incompatible with your website, and suggest they upgrade to a more modern option. Also highlight the benefits to encourage users to adopt responsive design, such as improved usability and security. However, avoid blocking or penalizing your users for using old browsers or devices, as this can create frustration and resentment.

5 Keep learning and updating your skills

Responsive web design is a dynamic and evolving field that requires constant learning and adaptation. Keep up with the latest trends, technologies, and standards that affect responsive web design, including new media features, layout methods, image formats, and accessibility guidelines. Also seek feedback and advice from other designers, developers, and users, and learn from their experiences. By doing so, you will be able to create responsive websites that work well for everyone.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?