Did you know that mobile users are 5x more likely to exit out of a website that is not mobile-friendly?
Mobile phones have changed the way we conduct business, communicate, and work, but should all of your efforts go towards one device?
We are here to set the record straight by defining mobile first strategy, explain why you should incorporate mobile-friendly practices in your web design, and how responsive web design can meet your need for mobility without sacrificing desktop users.
Mobile First Strategy vs Desktop First Strategy
First thing’s first: Do you really need a mobile first strategy? The answer is yes and no.
Mobile first strategy prioritizes mobile web design over the desktop.
From a design standpoint, this often equates to an easy, seamless mobile experience while the desktop site is found lacking. Oversimplistic design is appropriate when it has meaning behind it but when it’s not given attention, it looks outdated and forgotten.
While a mobile first strategy ignores one set of users, a mobile responsive strategy is an absolute necessity.
The terms “mobile first” and “mobile responsive ” are often–incorrectly–used interchangeably.
Instead of choosing between mobile and desktop, we suggest using mobile-friendly Responsive Web Design to satisfy the design needs for desktop, mobile, and every device in between.
What is Responsive Web Design
Responsive Web Design suits all devices by using HTML coding and CSS to adapt to whichever device the site is being accessed on. As well as being Google’s preferred web design, Responsive Web Design is mobile friendly and optimized.
The importance of smartphones cannot be ignored. If you commute by public transportation you only need to lift your head to see why being mobile friendly is a necessity.
Everywhere we look, we see the tops of people’s heads while they click, scroll, or text. Mobile devices have changed the way we communicate and it has changed the way we do business.
The retail, e-commerce, and travel industries are quickly adapting to meet the mobile demand borne from our pocket companions and local companies are following in their footsteps.
Some businesses are hesitant to give their all to mobile. If you’re one of the skeptics, consider this. 53 percent of mobile sites are abandoned if pages take more than three seconds to load.
Let that sink in.
Mobility is the future of search and e-commerce. Businesses need to adopt mobile responsive strategies so their website won’t fall into the majority of sites that are abandoned.
By choosing Responsive Web Design, your business meets the demand for mobility and the need for an informative, engaging desktop site.
Responsive Web Design uses the latest features to improve loading times on mobile and desktop, has the ability to be Search Engine Optimized, and looks great on every device.
Look towards the future of mobility and anticipate new trends for 2018.
Benefits of Responsive Web Design
Your website should be a living, breathing thing. It is the home where your business lives, the first impression for your customers, and a resource for anyone who lands on it.
Responsive Web Design is a comprehensive method to develop websites that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and adaptable.
Flexibility
Website trends change year after year. What’s popular today may receive a slap on the wrist from Google next year. In order to stay relevant and at the top of the search engines, you have to be ready.
Responsive Web Design is fluid. Using HTML and CSS, it shifts to fill the user’s need. Being mobile responsive leaves room for continuous updates, additional features, content, and much more.
You won’t have to wonder if a new web page added or widget will screw up your mobile site. Have peace of mind knowing that your site will adapt and fit screen resolutions.
Every year Google rolls out several algorithm updates that affect your site’s ranking and performance. You need a design that can be easily changed to reflect algorithm updates and adopt new best practices.
Thankfully, Responsive Web Design is not set in stone. Edit, eliminate, or add code at will.
Enhanced User Experience
The issue with mobile first strategy is that it plays favorites. When you ignore consumers, you lose money. Instead of making mobile your sole focus, choose a design that adapts to your consumer’s preference.
Websites with responsive designs fit any device.
If someone is browsing your business on their mobile device, CSS will shrink your site and may eliminate elements that will affect loading speeds. This means this consumer gets to enjoy a mobile site that loads fast and has exactly what they’re looking for.
A desktop experience is much more different than a mobile one. With a wider screen, your business has more space to showcase photos, videos, products, and services.
The truth is, more searches are being conducted on mobile devices but desktop users are spending more time on websites.
It’s not really a shocking fact.
Consider your own mobile practices. When you search for an item on your phone, don’t you usually follow that search up with a desktop look?
I know I do.
Mobile is definitely leading in searches, but we cannot forget that many users still turn to a desktop for more information.
Ensure that your mobile and desktop experiences complement one another to push conversions.
(And don’t forget to retarget!)
Cost Effective
Building one website that fits all of your needs is more cost-effective than building two separate websites.
Responsive Web Design is an all-in-one solution for every device. Your web developers will have the freedom to edit and customize features to fit your needs and your budget.
With some budget left over, you can steer those funds towards your marketing or advertising campaigns.
Perfecting Your Mobile Responsive Strategy
Rise above your competition with today’s best mobile practices. It starts on mobile but it doesn’t end until you have a new customer!
Are you being found?
Become the cream of the crop by optimizing your site for mobile search. Our helpful tips will steer you towards the top of the search engines.