The ‘mobile web’ is a generic term for the type of web surfing done on mobile devices, whether it be a smartphone or tablet device. Mobile web development is all about creating a solution that works across all mobile platforms, not just an iPhone or iPad. According to many industry experts and analysts, mobile use of websites is on track to overtake conventional desktop access by the end of 2013.
What does that mean for every company (or individual) who is trying to keep their website up to date? Business owners cannot ignore the fact that managing web content is no longer enough. The entire user experience must be managed and optimized across all online channels. Not only must it be managed across all channels, consideration must also be given to the change of technology infrastructure.
So what issues does this shift mean to businesses? There are several to consider if you are considering how your website is viewed and used on a mobile device.
There’s the practical issue of size. Most smartphones have touchscreens in which users tap, drag and read on tiny screens. Limits on display resolution, small text and poorly sized buttons can hinder a mobile user's ability to get information when trying to make a decision or purchase. Limited navigation options and broken pages on a mobile device can also hinder the user experience.
Mobile web users have needs that make phones and tablets require a new web user experience. Content for mobile web needs to reflect those different needs, but must still provide the same information and persuasion that desktop internet does. Initially, most mobile web use was for social media - posting and checking updates, uploading photos. Increasingly, mobile web users are looking for the same experience from their mobile device as they would from their desktop, with a user-friendly interface and a site that has been optimized for mobile screens.
With more smartphone users than ever before, designing for the mobile web is no longer optional. It’s essential to promoting your brand across platforms so as to make the customer experience as seamless as possible.
At Servon Design, we believe in the ‘Design and develop once, deploy everywhere solution’. Statistics are already showing smart-phones will actually outsell personal computers this year. You’re going to need a mobile web strategy in place pretty soon, if you haven’t already got one. Contact us to discuss how we can help you create a mobile web strategy that will keep you in this increasingly fast-moving game.
