Last November, Google announced yet another algorithmic change with the potential to significantly impact website search engine rankings. Currently untitled, this latest algorithm is just one of many changes the search engine giant has made throughout the course of the year in an effort to afford users a more accurate reflection of authoritative, user-friendly websites. According to a Google Webmasters article, this change is specifically intended to help users identify mobile-friendly pages in search results. Google's new focus is undoubtedly the result of the growing percentage of online traffic conducted on mobile devices, which has steadily increased in the last two
Search results will now indicate when a website has been deemed mobile-friendly by Google, a distinction earned by meeting the following criteria:
In fact, Google even has a site specifically designated for mobile responsive testing, found here. Users can paste their website's URL onto the page and, within about a minute, an analysis identifies the specific elements of a site that prevent it from earning a mobile-friendly label. Google Webmasters have stated that this algorithm will be implemented globally throughout the coming weeks.
So just what does this new emphasis on mobile-friendly websites mean for businesses? In short, for those that haven't already, it's time to implement responsive web design. A website that is responsive or "mobile ready" is designed to seamlessly adapt to mobile platforms without the creation of entirely separate mobile websites, or without hindering an optimal user experience in any way. When accessed from a mobile phone, websites that aren't responsive can present poor layouts, challenging navigation, incorrect image resolutions, minuscule text, and many other problematic issues.
The importance of mobile responsiveness extends beyond adjusting to algorithmic changes; a responsive website design in itself typically earns businesses higher traffic and greater conversion rates, as their websites are better able to reach audiences in more dynamic and accessible ways. The significance of catering to this audience is undeniable considering recent statistics. For example, mobile traffic accounted for 35% of all online traffic in 2013, and is expected to increase dramatically within the next five years (approximately ten-fold). And did you know that 61% of people have a more favorable opinion of companies that provide a positive mobile experience? The reality is that businesses who seek to maintain a competitive online presence can no longer ignore optimizing for their growing mobile audiences.
What does it take to create a responsive website design that will meet Google's new criteria and afford users a mobile-friendly experience? WebiMax has the answers. Our design team continues to work successfully with businesses to implement every necessary element for an effective website design. Specifically, we:
Learn more about implementing a responsive web design to make your site mobile-friendly by contacting WebiMax online or calling us at 1-888-932-4629. Click here for mobile marketing solutions by Webimax.