Those of us in the wed design industry often forget that most entrepreneurs and businesses are not up-to-date with the latest internet use statistics. Business owners have, for several decades, been told they need to stay on top of the latest web design trends, only to find out these new faddish elements did little or nothing to attract visitors and increase conversions. Is it any wonder when a small business is told they need a responsive web design and they are a little hesitant? 

With this in mind, it is not too surprising that many small businesses have not switched to a responsive web design. However, having a mobile-friendly website is not the latest faddish trend, it is the new reality. Google recently released their report on how people use their devices. For years, we have known that smartphones have been growing in popularity. But today, for many it is their prime internet access point. Roughly 27 percent of all internet users are utilizing the internet using their smartphone only, compared to just 14 percent who access using computer only.

Moreover, on any given day, 80 percent of internet users access with a smartphone, with 40 percent of people using their smartphone to meet immediate needs. Consequently, Google is actually receiving more internet searches via smartphone than computers. Moreover, 1 in 5 people use a mobile device concurrently with their computer, which means they are seamlessly moving back and forth while searching for information, products, and services. All this data and statistics are showing that smartphones have become the most important aspect of internet marketing.

This all answers why a mobile-friendly website is important, but why a responsive web design?

  1. User Experience – Other mobile-friendly options serve users with different code and content. However, a responsive web design will give visitors the same content and functionality, seamlessly adapting the site to the chosen device.
  2. No Duplicate Content – If your business redirects mobile users to a different URL, you are likely creating duplicate content, which can penalize you on search engine results pages.
  3. Lower Costs – As stated, other options requiring developing separate code for mobile users, and sometimes maintaining a separate website. A responsive website design utilizes the same website and serves the same code.
  4. It Makes Google Happy – Google is using a number of factors to determine your position on search engine results pages, which includes user experience and engagement. Based on their research, Google recommends a responsive web design because of these factors.

Ultimately, today,  your website must look great and work well on every possible device: computer, tablet, and smartphone. A responsive web design can achieve this goal. Moreover, responsive web design will boost your SEO, increasing your visibility on search engines. Would that be of benefit in your situation?