Weblinx, Incorporated

7 Important Trends in Mobile Web Design

However large and important you think mobile computing is, it’s probably bigger and more important. Towards the latter half of 2011, investment banks and industry experts predicted that mobile web usage would make up over half of the US market by 2014. Now, it seems like those estimates were too conservative.

Regardless of what the actual figures are, however, and precisely how many millions of people are logging onto the Internet through iPhones, Androids, Galaxy tablets, and other web-ready devices, the point is that mobile web design should be an important part of your Internet strategy going forward. The market is simply too big to ignore.

With that in mind, here are seven important trends in mobile web design that are taking shape right now:

1. Mobile-friendly responsive websites. While mobile versions of websites are a viable option, so is responsive web design (usually in HTML5) that encourages cross-platform compatibility. Why not launch a business website that’s accessible for all your customers, no matter where they might be?

2. Short, simple pages. No one likes to read long blocks of text, or look at very large photos, on a small screen. For that reason, lots of companies are making their pages simpler and easier to scroll. Besides, simpler pages force you to focus on your most important ideas and benefits.

3. Easy forms. Even worse than reading long blocks of text on a smart phone is being asked to write them. Substituting complicated forms for simple ones is an easy way to boost conversion rates. If you can settle for a name and e-mail, for example, don’t ask for more information than you need.

4. Click-to-call features. When short forms just won’t do, click-to-call features that let customers complete their inquiry or transaction over the phone can be a great time-saving answer. Not everyone will call you, of course, but having the option could increase your overall profitability.

5. Social media links. Social media and smart phones go together well. Make sure your customers have the option of sharing their opinions and feedback with others via Facebook and Twitter from a mobile device. If it’s quick and easy, they’ll help you generate more sales from their friends and colleagues.

6. App development. Although some companies certainly do make a small fortune from app sales, the bigger opportunity for a lot of marketers lies in better brand promotion and customer service. Could you envision an app that brings customers closer to your company?

7. Local marketing. One of the underrated side effects of a good mobile strategy is that it can draw in customers from down the street, or those who are on the move. If you have retail locations, or regular events, make sure customers can get updates via mobile devices.

Mobile First Web Design

Need help putting your mobile computing and Internet marketing strategy together? Contact the Weblinx team today to arrange for a free consultation.

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