Phil Hoyt: Four reasons every company needs a mobile-responsive website

Once a term reserved for the most innovative of digital companies, “mobile friendly” has become an outdated way of thinking about mobile communication. Consider this: By the end of 2013, there were more mobile devices on Earth than people, according to a new report.

With the universal adoption of smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, companies can no longer afford to treat mobile like an isolated communication vehicle. Instead, the most successful companies will be those that can develop communication and content that is mobile responsive, creating a seamless user experience across mobile and online platforms.

Here are for reasons every company needs a mobile-responsive website in 2014.

 

A higher conversion rate

The ultimate goal of most websites is to encourage customers to take action, whether it’s to call, schedule an appointment, read a blog or go to an event. Mobile-responsive sites highlight these calls to action to increase a company’s chances of customer conversion. When a potential customer visits your mobile-responsive website from any mobile device, the site collapses into a smaller, mobile-sized version that makes it easy for customers to find, read and click on content, and thus, interact with you.

 

A better user experience

According to Google, 51 percent of users said they wouldn’t recommend a business with a poorly designed mobile site. Offering a mobile-responsive site that’s easy to navigate and delivers clear information shows your customers you are thinking about their needs and interests. A website that is stretched out, hard to navigate or doesn’t show up correctly on the screen conveys the opposite and will drive potential customers to a competitor.

 

Brand consistency

A top advantage of having a mobile-responsive site is that it gives your company a consistent look and feel across all platforms. The experience of online customers is the same as that of customers using a tablet or mobile phone, giving them the flexibility to interact with your brand however they choose.

 

Future proofing

An optimized website that is responsive is compatible with any mobile technology. This is different than a mobile website, which is designed to be used on a specific mobile device. When the newest iPhone or iPad hits the market, you can be sure that your mobile-responsive website will work on it, whereas a mobile website would require additional work, design cost and maintenance.

 

With these benefits, a mobile-responsive site is a must-have for companies that want to take advantage of the full benefits of mobile commerce and maximize the number of users.

 

Phil Hoyt
Technology Manager
SBN Interactive, a full-service marketing agency dedicated to producing measurable business results for its clients through comprehensive digital and content strategies.
(440) 250-7022
[email protected]
www.sbninteractive.com