In a world where everything can be found with just the click on a button, instant access to online information is imperative. Thus, providing information on the go is of utmost priority for any business. This means being equipped with a mobile-friendly website to accommodate users from any device. We have even compiled a list of reasons to elaborate the importance of having a mobile-friendly website. 

What is a mobile-friendly website?

A mobile-friendly website is also called called a mobile-responsive website. This refers to the ability of the website to display content on any device, ranging from mobiles, tablets and desktops. Specifically, the content has been designed in such a way that it is just as easy to peruse through the information on any screen size.

For example, although the content may be displayed on a smaller screen, a mobile-friendly website is smart enough to increase the font size of the text to make it easier to read. This shows that the mobile-friendly website will automatically adjust the display to the screen size and resolution of the device. Additionally, it will also include touch-friendly elements to allow the users to quickly locate and click on a button.

You will note that the individual elements on the website responds to the size of the differing screen sizes. The position and size of the elements also adjusts according to the screen size. Despite these changes, the site will always look good and is easy for the user to navigate. 

Features of a mobile-friendly website

1. Easy Access To Information

Mobile-friendly websites should have the capabilities to work across all mobile devices. Provide the option for users to go to the desktop version of the website. Users should be able to get the information they need in as few clicks as possible. Furthermore, the search bar should always be visible so users are able to quickly search for information. 

2. Clarity in Design

The design of the website should be clean and efficient. While aesthetic design is important, users’ attention should not be diverted away from the information that they were seeking. Each design elements should be both functional and aesthetically-pleasing.

Alongside design, content should be easy to read without the user having to squint or enlarge the screen. Buttons should always be sufficiently big and finger-friendly. If you have forms in your mobile website, only ask for the most necessary information. It would be good practise to have forms that are non-scrolling. Ergo, the user is able to view all the fields at once.

Another point of consideration is the layout of the website for mobile users. This is because the nature of a smaller screen dictates that users scroll in one direction – Up to Down or Left to Right.

Etsy Website On Desktop

The Etsy website is good website with clear design elements. Small details such as the existence of a search bar can be extremely useful especially to new visitors.  A catchy tagline at the top of the page quickly informs visitors the type of services and products thatEtsy has to offer.

3. Be Easy To Reach

Make it easy for users to contact you both online and also physically.. 

Have a “Click-To-Call” button for users to get in touch with you quickly. Always indicate your various social network accounts as well as your email address so users can engage with you at various platforms. Likewise, do display your location and operation hours clearly. If you are going to be unavailable for extended periods of time, inform your visitors ahead of time on all platforms. 

4. Fast Loading Speed

Source : ThinkGoogle

This is a very important factor to take note of as most people on mobile are on the go. Information is expected to be provided immediately and any delays or wait time will result in increased frustration. This will eventually lead increased drop off rates as the visitor will simply hit the back button. Or worse, look for the information from a competitor’s website. The only way to avoid this is to ensure that your website has fast loading speeds. The ideal loading speed should fall below 3 seconds.

Tools To Test Mobile-Friendly Website

Once you have made the necessary changes to your website, always check the extent of its mobile-friendliness. Testing and optimisation of the website should be an on-going process. These checks can take place at anytime, even in the midst of a website change. We share with your 2 free tools that you can use to do your checks:

Tool 1 : Mobile Friendly Test Tool 

This tool can help you verify if your website theme and design are truly mobile-friendly across all devices as a final check on your website. Simply input your website URL and this tool will scan your website for mobile-friendly features. Results generated will also inform you of any issues that you might need to look into to further optimise your website for mobile devices.

Tool 2 : Page Speed Insights Tool 

This tool can show you if the website theme and design you have chosen will work smoothly and efficiently on mobile devices. Similar to the Mobile Friendly Test Tool, you only need to input your website website URL. Results displayed will provide you with the speed insights on both the desktop and mobile devices. You will also be informed of all the issues that you will need to look into to further optimise your website.

Conclusion

A mobile-friendly website is essential to the success of your business. Designing a mobile-friendly website will ensure that your mobile visitors can enjoy better user experience no matter which device they are using. As an added incentive, Google will also reward you for making the change to be more mobile-friendly. Most website builders are equipped with mobile-responsive design functionality. Remember to regularly conduct optimisation checks on your website as maintenance efforts.