Progressive Enhancement

A web design strategy that starts with a baseline of essential content and functionality that works in any browser or with any internet connection, then layers on enhanced features for users with more capable browsers or greater bandwidth. Rooted in the "graceful transformation" concept from WCAG 1.0 in the 1990s, progressive enhancement ensures that all users can access core content regardless of their technology, while users with modern browsers receive a richer experience. This approach directly supports accessibility by ensuring content remains available to assistive technologies and older devices, and aligns with responsive design principles for supporting diverse viewing contexts.