Lately, we’ve been diving into some really interesting talks with designers and clients about mobile-first design. We want to share a couple of key insights that might help clear things up.
Prioritizing Content: Need to Know vs. Nice to Know
The core of mobile-first design is about prioritizing your content. It’s about distinguishing what users “need to know” on their mobile devices versus what’s “nice to know” when they’re on their desktops. With mobile screens being so much smaller, you have to be choosy about what you put front and center. Then, as you move to the larger desktop screens, you’ve got more room to expand on your ideas.
Understanding Where Content Is Consumed
But there’s another layer to this – not all content is consumed the same way across devices. Some pages on your website might be more mobile-friendly, while others shine on desktop. For instance, people often read blogs or watch videos during their commute, on breaks at work, or while winding down in bed. This content is perfect for mobile consumption. On the other hand, when someone’s at work, in front of a desktop, doing a management role or quick tasks, they might prefer content that’s straight to the point – like action pages on your website.
The Right Content for the Right Device
This doesn’t mean just asking whether your site is mobile-friendly or looks good on a desktop. It’s about thinking deeper – which pages perform better on mobile and why? When are people more likely to access them on their phones? It’s about recognizing that your website isn’t just one thing; it’s a collection of different sections, each with its own best device and time for consumption.
So, when planning your website, consider not just making it mobile-first but also how each piece of content fits into your users’ lives. Are they reading a blog post on their morning commute? Are they looking for quick info while at their desk? Tailor your content and design to these scenarios to truly meet your audience where they are.
PSA to Business Owners: Your Web Developer and IT Provider Need to Talk
Here’s something all business owners need to hear: Your website and your emails are super important, right? Well, they both heavily rely on this thing called your domain name. And here’s where it gets tricky – your web developer and IT provider, they’ve got to be on the same page. Let’s dive into why their communication is not just helpful but absolutely critical.