Mobile first is not an option, it’s an imperative
The mobile first website design strategy suggests a paradigm shift from traditional website development – to design for users that are viewing your content on a phone or tablet vs. people that are sitting at a computer digging into the details.
First some data*:
- There are 2.7 billion smartphone users around the world.
- 77% of Americans have smart phones.
- 47% of US smartphone users say they couldn’t live without their devices.
- 72% of people will use only mobile for internet by 2025.
While these numbers may be surprising, they are not to be ignored. They suggest that making your website and campaign landing pages mobile friendly is no longer an option. This is going to change the way websites are developed in many ways.
Here are some guidelines for developing a mobile-first destination:
- Content needs to be concise: When consumers have to scroll for too long to find what they need, you have a much higher chance of losing them.
- Your navigation needs to be clear: When providing a menu of choices, make it intuitive with the least amount of sub-menus possible.
- Use simple and visible CTAs: Direct your prospects to the action you want them to take. Always make sure your email/phone/primary CTA is easily accessible in the footer.
- Utilize a responsive framework/template: Although many templates now are already mobile-friendly, be sure to test out your options on your phone, tablet and laptop before committing.
- Prioritize the user: Although this is true in all marketing, optimizing the web experience is even more important. Use a simple font, right-sized imagery and test your load times.
Optimizing for a mobile-first experience also applies to social media. When your prospects are engaging with your social media channels, they are looking for personal ways to connect with your school.
Here are some ways to “stop the thumb scroll” in social:
- Keep your images small and digestable within a 5 second timeframe.
- Use infographics that expand out to the full version within the platform.
- Use intriguing headlines and short sentences.
- Include embedded in-app video that auto plays so users don’t have the click a link.
- Link to blogs, but include an interesting lead-in that draws the viewer in. Always include a photo.
If you need more ideas on how to design your mobile first web destinations and social experiences, contact GPRS today. We can help you develop the right strategy that delivers engagement.
