Now more than ever, individuals are using their Smartphone or tablet to do a quick search on a local business or service. In fact, more people use these devices than they use desktop computers. If your website is not responsive it’s very likely you may be missing a significant amount of traffic to your competitors.
Why exactly does your business need a responsive website? While there are many advantages for your business and customers, let’s take a look at the 3 most important reasons for updating your website to a responsive website design.
1 – Flexibility & Convenience
Unlike a few years ago where viewing a website on a cell phone would require significant website updates to do so, with a responsive web design visitors can conveniently view your website on any sized screen, be it on a tablet, cell phone, or laptop. Screen sizes are constantly changing, and fortunately with a responsive web design your website automatically adjusts to fit the user’s behavior, based on the screen size of the device being used. This means, you do not have to waste time and resources to update your site; now it will function perfectly, and look consistent on screens of any size. Without this flexibility, it’s easy for a visitor to become frustrated with the inability to navigate, often resulting in them leaving your site for somebody else’s.
2 -The Future
The fact of the matter is mobile traffic isn’t slowing down; it’s instead increasing at a rapid rate. If you do not follow the current trends of online marketing, your website may be pushed to the bottom of search engine rankings, in comparison to websites that are built responsive. Google takes into account user ability when deciding on website rankings, and responsive websites provide a more satisfying, and reliable user experience. In addition, it is suggested by industry experts that Google favors responsive sites, as the ability to crawl is much easier. If you are planning to make website improves as part of your 2014 marketing initiatives, it is highly recommended you change your website to a responsive design. Staying up-to-date with current technology ensures your business is moving ahead with effective marketing trends, and puts your website presence in a good position for the next few years ahead.
3 – Higher Conversion Rates
For most companies, the essence of a website is to convert visitors into buyers; essentially, increase overall conversion rates. With a responsive website design, the user’s experience is a consistently pleasant one; there is no need for redirection, and users can locate exactly what they want, whether on the go, or at home. If a user is able to successfully open your website on a tablet, or mobile device without having to squint at the font, or spend a lengthy amount of time searching for a particular tab that is hidden, chances are you’ll keep them there for awhile. It all comes down to functionality and performance; when these are operating successfully, users are more apt to follow through with a point of contact or purchase.