As you might have heard, Google is now rewarding websites that are mobile-friendly with better search-result rankings. This means that you must either:
- Have a site that is “responsive” and adjusts the site styling and layout automatically based on the size of the display and type of device that is being used. OR:
- Have a fully separate mobile site that loads automatically when a tablet or phone is detected as the visitor’s device.
If your site does not offer one of these options for mobile-viewing, and is simply showing mobile-users a miniature version of what your site looks like on a desktop-size display, Google is now moving your site further back in the list of search results.
So, if your site is not mobile-friendly, what do you do? For most websites, option one is the best choice. With responsive design, you only need to build and maintain one site, and all of the content and images are automatically resized and adjusted based on the visitor’s device and display size. This is almost always the most economical and user-friendly option for our clients.
Some people ask: Is it worth it? It depends on you and your situation. How do you get your inquiries? Do you want more web-driven business? Is your site falling further and further behind in search results lists? If so, it may be time for you to review what’s holding you and your site back from being seen. If you are currently running an older site that is not responsive, contact me for more info about a responsive site re-design.