Google has been focusing to make the internet a friendlier place for mobile device users, but now it has launched a ‘mobile-first’ version of its index, which will have a significant impact on how websites are ranked on Google search results, with preference to mobile-friendly website.
What does that mean for your business?
It means that having a mobile-friendly website is a must-have for every business – particularly those involved in internet marketing. If you have a business website or an online store, you simply must have a responsive website for all users, whether they’re visiting via computer / laptop, smartphone, iPad / tablet, or any other smart device.
Before I dive into the details of how to make your website mobile-friendly, let’s understand what ‘mobile-first’ index means.
mobile-friendly website
What is ‘mobile-first’ index?
Google collects information on every web page in a massive catalogue, known as an index, which it then uses to formulate and display search results for various queries. Up until recently, Google primarily viewed web pages through the eyes of a desktop user, treating mobile pages as important, but secondary to those desktop pages. Now, Google is treating the mobile versions of each page as the primary page to index, with desktop versions being secondary.
mobile-friendly website
What is a mobile-friendly website?
The simple definition is any webpage that can be viewed properly or correctly on a mobile device. For the most part, Google just cares that people will be able to load all pieces of content on your page, read the text without having to zoom or scroll, and interact with any buttons present.
Though Google is mostly concerned with all sites adhering to a “bare minimum” of mobile friendliness, it’s often worth the extra effort to make your site especially appealing or targeted toward mobile users.
If you want to check if your website is mobile-friendly or not, simply go to this Google URL and enter your website:
https://search.google.com/test/mobile-friendly
mobile-friendly website
How to make your website more mobile-friendly / mobile-responsive?
Here are some things to consider for a mobile-friendly version of website:
1. No Flash
Avoid developing any content on Adobe Flash Player, as it is not supported by Apple and some tablet and mobile devices.
2. No Zooming
Your website should be readable on a mobile device without zooming in or out, as it can be annoying for the visitor. Think carefully about the content you want to put on your pages, considering the small screen size.
3. Space around links
Keep ample space around links, so that visitor is able to click easily without having to zoom in, or click on the wrong link and then hitting the back button.
4. Correct scaling
If you website has mobile-responsive design, it should automatically scale to fit the small or large screen size. Visitors should not have to scroll horizontally to see all the content. Vertical scrolling is fine, but try to put all important content on the top to gain maximum exposure.
5. Verify mobile version:
To identify any errors on your website when viewed through a mobile device, visit Google’s webmaster tools to generate a report, at this link below:
If you want to check if your website is mobile-friendly or not, simply go to this Google URL and enter your website:
https://search.google.com/test/mobile-friendly
mobile-friendly website
Do you know of any other tips and tricks to make your website mobile-friendly? Please share it in the comments below.
mobile-friendly website