Why is it important to have a responsive website?
Quick question. Do you have a responsive website?
If the answer is no, then it’s likely your website isn’t very effective on smartphones or tablets. This is because it’s increasingly important for websites to respond to different devices. It’s an attribute that leads to a quality mobile presence. And you do that by starting with a responsive design.
Are you ready to learn why it’s important to have a responsive website?
Responsive Design Is Standard
When a website’s code responds to a device’s screen, it’s using responsive design. This feature isn’t just a recommended technique. It’s become a web design standard over the last 6 years. If your not familiar with it, read the following definition by Smashing Magazine:
“Responsive Web design is the approach that suggests that design and development should respond to the user’s behavior and environment based on screen size, platform and orientation.” — Smashing Magazine, Published 2011
Responsive design is a no brainer if you want the best experience on your website. It ensures that visitors on smartphones, tablets, and desktops engage with your content. Of course there are other factors in web design, but having a responsive website is a smart move.
Google Prefers Responsive Websites
Google is the authority on Internet search. So it’s wise to consider their recommendations for your website. A responsive website will be mobile-friendly. And Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites.
Google’s search rankings include factors related to how mobile-friendly a website is. In May of 2016, they shared another update related to mobile-friendliness. They even have a mobile-friendly test tool. It looks at viewport settings, text size, content width, and clickable elements. To pass their test, make sure you have a responsive website.
Statistics Show The Increasing Use of Mobile Devices
More and more people around the world are using smartphones to access the Internet. They expect a great experience on their phones, tablets, and computers. A responsive website is an effective way to do that no matter what device it’s viewed on.
One 2017 statistic revealed that over half of the world uses a smartphone. And half of the world’s web traffic comes from mobile phones. This data along with other statistics shows the increasing use of mobile devices for Internet usage. So for engagement on mobile devices, responsive design is an ideal way to go.
Summary
The importance of a responsive website has been evident for years. Yet many websites are still behind the times. If you answered yes to the question posed at the beginning of this post, then congratulations! You are with the times and provide a better experience for site visitors.
But if not, I hope you’ve at least learned why a responsive website is important. It has become standard, appeases Google search, and provides the best mobile experience. Check your website’s responsiveness today. Your mobile site visitors will be glad you did.
What did you learn from this post about the importance of a responsive website?
