The future is mobile and it is happening now.
It is undeniable that technology has improved the way people do business, as well as caused headaches to many business owners. Tablets, smartphones and other small devices have pushed the limits of web design, creating a new experience for consumers around the globe. Although this astounding development offers another business opportunity for website owners, careful planning and budgeting has to be taken into consideration. The reason being, that maintaining an optimized website for tablets and smartphones is costly. That is why some businesses have opted to outsource their mobile commerce development and maintenance through various solutions provider – a move that is not only costly but limits control and flexibility. It is no surprise that business owners today are attracted by responsive design, a new approach to web development that has a lot of potential. This multi-part blog will explain what responsive design is and how it impacts your business.
Responsive Design Concept
So what is responsive design?
For starters, responsive design is not a technology but a concept — a new approach to web development used by mobile web developers to maintain user experience, regardless of screen size, device, or orientation. Instead of letting a smartphone user painstakingly pinch, zoom, or scroll a website designed for desktops, a responsive site responds within the constraints of the device enabling the site to retain its design and functionality through a seamless transition. This concept is made possible by a CSS3 feature known as “media queries”. It allows capable browsers to figure out what device resolution is being served on. Ultimately, a breakthrough in the field of web development with sets of principles to follow.
Optimize your mobile site and implement a local search strategy
Most mobile search results are influenced by geo-specific parameters, so it means that you have to make certain adjustments to meet local SEO pointers. This enables search engines to identify your optimized mobile website within the local searches.
Make your keywords shorter
Smartphone users do not like to use long search phrases, so your keywords have to be shorter than normal. Also, take note of Google’s search recommendations and use them to your advantage.
Take advantage of Mobile Analytics
Utilize Google’s mobile web analytics to monitor the number of visits from your mobile website. This will enable you to make small tweaks and attain a higher conversion rate.
Focus on Users First
This has to be a top priority. Make your mobile website accessible and user-friendly. Help your visitors find information on your site without difficulties. A good way to start is by making your mobile website load fast.
Responsive design is going to be the next big thing because of its amazing concept that takes web development to another level. That is why we are not stopping here. The next article in this series will discuss more on the ups and downs of having a responsive website.