Why a Responsive Web Design Matters
Responsive web design. It’s a concept you’ve heard of but might not completely understand, especially if your use of technology is limited. While most business owners have taken the plunge and had a website built, the way that website is viewed on different pieces of technology is different. From computer to computer and web browser to web browser, things generally look the same. But when you start to view a website on a smartphone or tablet, all of which vary in size, things start to get a little bit messy.
With responsive web design, your website can sense what type of device is trying to view it. It can alter the format and show a website design that is appropriate for a different type of device. Your responsive web design, or mobile format, may be completely different from your personal computer format, but with such a large percentage of people doing mobile searches it becomes critical for that display to be user friendly.
Google and Responsive Design
Believe it or not, whether or not your website has a responsive design now matters to the Google algorithm. Earlier this year, Google announced that mobile-friendly websites would receive higher ranking signals in their algorithms than those without it. The change was noted to be significant, meaning this is something a serious business owner really can’t ignore.
Responsive Designs are Flexible
A responsive web design is flexible. Once the basic format is set up, your website can adapt to any type of viewing device. You don’t necessarily have to design 3 or 4 different layouts and hope the right one hits. Someone viewing your website on a smartphone might see a single stream layout while someone on a tablet may see something with multiple columns, but perhaps still not as large as a full computer screen. The user experience is enhanced by the adaptability of your site. A prospective customer who can easily find relevant information about the products needed, is a happy, buying customer.
Oh, and it’s cost effective, too. In the past you actually used to have to design two separate websites – one for mobile and one for computer users. You can now manage all of your information on one site and it will adapt appropriately. Only one site for updates, for on-site SEO, and for off-site marketing.
Not sure if your website has a responsive design? We can help you find out and, of not, we can help you transform your website into a marketing tool guaranteed to bring you new business day in and day out. Just contact us to set up a consultation.