Progressive Enhancement

Definitions

1. A web development strategy that starts with a baseline of semantic HTML that works everywhere, then layers on CSS for styling and JavaScript for interactivity, so the core content and functionality remain accessible even when scripts fail to load or the browser lacks support.

   In plain English: Building a website so it works with the basics first, then adding fancy features on top for browsers that can handle them.

   Example: "The form submits as a regular POST by default — the AJAX submission is progressive enhancement for browsers that support it."

Related Terms

• Wireframe
• Mockup
• Prototype
• Persona
• Information Architecture
• User Flow
• Usability Testing
• Progressive Loading
• Pseudo Element