Why Your Website Needs Responsive Design

The use of mobile devices is becoming more and more prevalent. In fact, 77 percent of Americans were using smartphones by the end of 2016, up 35 percent from 2011. If you want to stay competitive, your business has to evolve to accommodate these users. That means implementing responsive design.

What is Responsive Website Design?

Mobile devices aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Manufacturers create them in a variety of sizes — from the 5.4-inch iPhone 7 to the 6.2-inch Galaxy S8+ and everything in between. How can you ensure your content looks good on each one?

Responsive design allows your email and web content to adapt to the size of the mobile device on which it’s being viewed. It’s especially important when you consider that 55 percent of consumers say they won’t buy from a brand with a poorly designed website or mobile experience.

What Should You Consider When Designing Mobile Content?

Responsive design goes beyond visual presentation. Yes, you want your content to look good from one device to the next, but that’s not the only consideration when dealing with mobile users.

Whereas desktop and laptop users are stationary, making it easier to explore and digest complicated content, mobile users are on the go. They’re looking a skimmable format with key points that are quick and easy to read. Think subheadings, bullet points and noticeable, clickable calls to action.

Would It Be Easier to Create a Mobile App?

With 90 percent of mobile time being spent in apps, it’s easy to jump to that conclusion. But when you consider the types of apps people use frequently — Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, etc. — it’s safe to say those numbers are somewhat skewed. If you do go the app route, though, having responsive design will ensure a satisfactory user experience across platforms.