Mobile-first is a concept that has been gaining ever-increasing importance over the last few years, and for good reason. Here's why.
What is mobile-first?
In order to understand just why mobile-first web design is so important, it's essential to get to grips with what it actually means. In a nutshell, mobile-first means starting the web design process by focusing on mobile devices, then widening a site's features so that it's suitable for a desktop or tablet version.
Increased mobile use?
One of the most important reasons for taking a mobile-first approach when designing a website is because the vast majority of people now own a mobile device, and more searches are now carried out on mobiles than on desktop devices. Statistics show that in 2019 alone, 53% of all web traffic came from mobile users.
Taking a mobile-first approach means your website is capitalising on the mobile market, ensuring you don't risk losing any of your target audiences.
Improved user experience
Moreover, adapting your web design to cater for mobile devices means you can ensure your audiences enjoy the best user experience possible, making the most of mobile-optimised solutions and functions. This includes features such as click-to-call buttons and links to Google maps for instant directions and convenience.
A user-friendly interface and improved user experience can, ultimately, help to increase the number of conversions you achieve, as well as boost customer retention.
Fast loading times
Mobile-first website design ensures content and images loaded to mobile sites are designed in such a way that won't slow down the page loading times. If a site takes more than a few seconds to load, chances are your users will click away, so speed is everything when it comes to keeping users hooked on your pages.
Additionally, a website that's fast to load and user-friendly can rank higher up search engine listings, making you more visible online.
If you'd like to benefit from the advantages that mobile-first web design brings, speak to us at Westcountry Media.