Having a mobile-friendly website generally means that it’s created using responsive web design, one that automatically adjusts all content to whatever device is being used to access it, whether it’s Android, iPhone, Blackberry, iPad, tablet or any other screen. If your website isn’t optimized for usage across all devices, you are potentially missing out on sales and are less likely to be found in online searches.
Mobile-friendly websites are more available
According to statistics, the number of people using smartphones to surf the web has almost doubled in the past 5 years. Unlike stationary computers and laptops, smartphones can access the internet anywhere and anytime. And for mobile users, it’s all about convenience. They want information fast and in easily digestible bites.
Having a website that supports the use of smartphones will enable your audience to visit your website when they really need it, whether they are looking for your contact details, want to learn about the products and services you offer, or would like to make a purchase online. If your website isn’t mobile-friendly, chances are potential customers will seek support elsewhere and you’re missing out big time.
Responsive web design provides a superior user experience
Mobile-friendly websites are usually created using a responsive rather than a stationary design to greatly improve the user’s experience. No matter which way you turn your phone, the screen will change from vertical to horizontal, adjusting the size and layout of text and media content to suit the reader’s preferences. Websites become easier to navigate due to a much better user experience, which in turn increases the likelihood of visitors returning for more.
Improved user experience also helps build a better relationship with your brand. If you can offer a positive and satisfying browsing experience, users are more likely to trust your brand or your company. Contrary to that, if online users have difficulty accessing your site, navigating around or finding what they’re looking for, you might lose them permanently to a competitor. Rather than checking out your desktop site, they will simply find a website that solves their problem straight away.
Better website design means increased sales
Users that are more likely to return to your website will significantly boost your chances of higher revenue. People use smartphones everywhere and the number of online purchases made from smartphones is continuously rising. Research shows that online purchases via phone are usually impulsive and that these customers tend to spend more money than their desktop counterparts. If your business is web-based, utilizing traffic generated through smartphones is essential to keep up with the competition.
Mobile-friendly websites rank better
The most important reason why your website should be mobile-friendly comes down to SEO. You can have a beautifully designed website with all the necessary information about your company and the products or services you are offering. However, if you’re not listed among the first few pages in Google search results, don’t be surprised if nobody ever actually visits your page, let alone that you will create sales from it.
In an age where Google rankings and SEO strategies impact considerably on the success of a website, having a mobile-friendly website is vital to surviving and thriving. After all, Google identifies mobile-friendly websites due to their improved user experience and favours them in search results over those that are solely targeted at laptop and computer users.
Mobile-friendly check
To determine whether your website is mobile-friendly, ask yourself the following the questions:
- How long does it take to load?
- Does it easily take viewers to my key message?
- Is the content readable?
- Does it provide a good user experience?
- Is it easy to navigate?
- Can users find and access my call to action?
- Would you want to spend time browsing your own website?
If you’d like to find out how mobile-friendly your website is or learn more about how to optimize your website for use across all devices, contact the experienced team at Energise Web today.