History

• Web designer Steven Champeon coined the term "progressive enhancement" in 2003. It describes a reverse approach to graceful degradation web design strategy. Both strategies develop sites that work with a variety of Internet browsers. The graceful degradation method designs for the latest browsers first; the progressive enhancement approach designs for the least capable browsers and then adds enhancements for more advanced browsers.
  
  

Benefits

• Progressive enhancement designs enable all visitors to successfully access a website, and they allow for easy website modifications and upgrades as technology evolves. PE-based website designs improve Search Engine Optimization. The content is readily available and functional to visitors, whether they are using traditional desktop computer systems or mobile technologies, such as a Kindle or an iPhone.
  
  

Expert Insight

• Progressive enhancement and graceful degradation share a common goal of creating websites that the most potential users can access. By initially focusing on less advanced users, progressive enhancement does not always work well for users who are using the latest, most innovative technology. Some experts believe progressive enhancement limits Internet applications by emphasizing universal use.