The Web has gone mobile due in large part to the proliferation of the smartphone. In fact, when you compare the numbers we can see people prefer mobile because apps have now overtaken desktop usage and mobile websites continue to be on the rise.

Before long it’s safe to assume that most people are going to be connecting to the Web through a mobile device because it’s always attached to our hip and doesn’t require us to sit down in front of the computer. We also can factor in the generational shift, which sees younger individuals preferring to connect through their phones rather than sitting at a desk.

This article will provide you with an overview of the inherent value of developing a mobile website, some best practices to ensure its effectiveness, and then provide you with helpful resources to get started (or continue to improve upon your project).

Part 1: The Value of Mobile

We can already cross off from the list that mobile websites are great because there are so many mobile users in the world accessing the Web through their smartphones, tablets, and other mobile-ready devices.

The other great benefits/values of going mobile include:

·  The design, content, and sales funnel can be customized to fit within the smaller screen size. Essentially all unnecessary elements can be stripped so you’re left with an optimized version of your website that’s highly effective at conveying its value, brand, and offers.

·  The file size of these mobile websites are a fraction of what you’d have on your main website so they will load lightning fast (which helps to prevent people bouncing due to slow load times).

·  Many social networks and communities now prefer linking to the mobile website. When you see users complaining that links aren’t mobile-friendly you know it’s time to make it available.

·  A mobile site can be treated like a separate entity, which means you can collect a new set of analytical data to improve your campaigns.

At the end of the day, it’s about usability. Make a mobile website available to those who want to connect through mobile means and you’ll satisfy your community. Plain and simple.

Part 2: Mobile Website Best Practices

Now when it comes to developing the site, it’s always good to look into what people claim to be best practices because these suggestions come from professionals. Best practices are in place because they reduce the hassle and headache caused by development, launch, and usage/engagement.

These are a few you’d want to keep in mind:

·  Put responsive design front and center for your efforts because there are numerous screen varieties out there on the market.

·  Keep things short because you have limited space so cut back on long-winded copy so people can quickly scan and take action.

·  Accommodate for different users (such as larger fingers or disabilities) so that everyone can enjoy and get full usage of your mobile site.

·  Consider a single column layout for your navigation to give users plenty of space to see and touch the important elements to dig deeper into the mobile site.

·  Do not add pop-ups to your mobile website.

·  Keep the files sizes as small as possible because mobile bandwidth is far slower than having a hardline connection at home.

·  Use mobile security tools to keep the things you work on safe from vulnerabilities that bleed through to both site development and user devices.

Part 3: The Helpful Resources

To wrap things up it would be worthwhile to list out a few resources that will help you further understand the development of mobile websites, best practices, and strategies involved with making the most from this iteration of your site.

Here are some articles well worth the read:

·  Creating Mobile Websites: Prepare Your Business for the Mobile Takeover
·  Mobile Editor Review for Wix, Weebly, Squarespace and Jimdo
·  How To Plan Your Next Mobile E-Commerce Website

Research is your ally when it comes to developing a great mobile website. Tap into the tutorials and strategies provided by the professionals and authorities on the topic and you will succeed with your mobile initiative.

Conclusion

Mobile websites are amazing because they streamlines their sites’ purpose. They removes a lot of the bells and whistles that can get in the way of the user experience. Having one guarantees you’re not forcing people away due to the full site being unrendered on their phone (which is a true pain to navigate). Since you’re retaining those individuals, you will surely see an increase in interactivity and conversions.

Use this article as a launching point for developing a mobile website. Adhere to the best practices to avoid common mobile pitfalls. Tap into those resources to get the most from your efforts.

Do you have a mobile website for your business? Why or why not?