Why have a mobile website?

February 13, 2014

The concept of developing a mobile website may be one you are unfamiliar with, and that’s perfectly fine. You may be wondering What’s the point of having a mobile website? or What could one do for my business? Understanding that more and more people are accessing the internet from mobile devices is the first step to grasping this concept.

A few stats to keep in mind:

• By the end of October 2016, 51.3% of internet users were using their smartphones and tablets as their primary or exclusive internet source.

• Mobile phones account for 37% of global web usage, and that’s not even including mobile access from tablets.

• In 2016, mobile devices accounted for 43.6% of time spent on the internet is projected to account for 50.3% by the end of 2017.

So, if you are considering developing a mobile website but you’re not quite sure about what’s in it for your business, fear not! We’ve taken the guess work out of understanding the benefits of having a mobile website, so here they are!

1. Fabulous User Experience

According to the 2016 mobile growth statistics, 57% of mobile users say they won’t recommend a business with a poorly designed mobile site. This stems from the fact that sites not optimized for mobile can be very frustrating to use. Mobile websites are meant to make the user experience more enjoyable. By developing an interface that allows for efficient mobile navigation, visitors are more likely to enjoy the time they spend on your site.

2. Increased Visitor Site Time and Lower Mobile Bounce Rates

A website that is properly formated for a mobile device will potentially result in users spending more time on the site. The easier it is for a person to navigate the site, the less chance there is of them bouncing off your site out of frustration.

3. Higher Mobile Conversion Rates

Average smartphone conversion rates are up 64% compared to the average desktop conversion rates, according to socPub. You’re more likely to earn a conversion from your mobile visitors when the layout of your site is easy to navigate from a smartphone or tablet. Whether you want your visitors to call a number, make a purchase, or fill out a form, the fewer clicks or “screen touches” it takes for them to get to these points of interaction, the more likely you are to earn a conversion.

 4. Satisfaction to the Masses

Increased internet access via mobile devices has been trending for years at a higher rate than desktop usage. Looking forward, mobile internet users are likely to outnumber those accessing the internet primarily from a desktop computer. Based on 2017 reports, the scale will continue to tilt to a 50/50 split or even a 60/40 split in favor of mobile within the year. By having a mobile website, you can better serve the masses and satisfy their needs.

5. Acquire a Competitive Advantage

Mobile growth statistics show that not having a mobile optimized website is like closing your store one day every week. Having a mobile website gives your company a competitive advantage over those who haven’t developed one. Additionally, by keeping up with the current market trends and staying one step ahead of the competition, your brand is more appealing to consumers.

6. Faster Mobile Load Time

Time is of the essence. When people need information, they want to access it as quickly as possible. Having a website optimized for mobile devices allows the site to load in less time than a site that’s not mobile friendly.

 7. Search Engine Optimization

Google rewards those who maintain mobile websites by ranking them better in mobile searches as opposed to companies that don’t have a mobile website.Having a mobile website could mean the difference between a conversion for you or a conversion for your competition.

If you’re interested in learning more about whether a mobile website is right for your business, check out the 7 Signs You Need a Mobile Website.