DW Tips

Why Your Business Needs a Responsive Website

Jan 20, 2017 by

The internet is changing rapidly. Five years ago, most people surfed the net using a desktop computer.  Fast forward to now and this article from comscore.com notes that 65% of digital media time is spent on mobile devices while just 35% is spent on desktops. It is more important than ever for companies to focus on the mobile web if they want to reach their customers. 

why-1780726_640.pngBut what does focusing on the mobile web mean?  In short, it means that a company needs a responsive website.  This is a site designed in such a way that it renders well across a range of platforms, including smartphones, tablets and desktops.  For web designers, it involves incorporating a variety of flexible grids and layouts, images and CSS media queries.  To business owners, it means a website that provides a good visitor experience and a higher ROI.  

Why does a responsive website lead to a better user experience?  Here are two important reasons.

Faster Load Time

It is a fact that website speed increases conversions.  According to a recent study, 47% of consumers expect a web page to load in two seconds or less. What do they do if does not? They click to another site.  In short, every second counts when your website is loading on someone's device.  Responsive website design increases loading times, which keeps people on your site. Without this crucial first step, not much else matters.

No More Pinching and Scrolling

Websites that have static design, that is sites that spill off the page or have tiny text on a smartphone, are difficult to read.  Visitors have to "pinch and scroll" the site to navigate it.  This leads to a frustrating user experience and high bounce rates, especially if a competitor has a nicely designed, easy to use site just a click away.  Responsive websites are easy to read and navigate on all devices. Most importantly, they display well on smartphones.

Need a custom designed website for your small business, school or non-profit?  If so, then please contact us.  Let us show you how to take your website to the next level.

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