From Desktop to Device: How to Make Your Content More Mobile

We are on the go. Who sits in front of a computer to read articles anymore? We have a mobile device for that, and whether we are killing some time in the checkout line or searching for specific information on the couch, we are most likely using our phone. Content is only growing because we have more opportunities to read it. Why not make it meaningful?

To create content that will work on both mobile devices and those archaic things we call computers, you need to identify how your content will be applied. Will your content be used to inform? Give direction? Entice someone to buy? 

How can businesses ensure their content isn’t lost in translation from desktop to device? 

First, make sure your content loads quickly and is clutter-free. Sometimes, this isn’t in your control if there is shoddy Wi-Fi or an outdated device, but pop-ups, overbearing images, and bad formatting will cause your reader to move on...to the next business.

Your website and blog should be responsive if you want it to stay consistent, meaning it will work on any device, whether a phone, tablet, or computer, and doesn’t require a secondary URL that will need double the upkeep. A responsive website is specifically designed to scale into various screen sizes and resolutions. Because of this, your website maintains the same look and feel, and visiting your mobile site is the same experience for each user, each time, creating brand consistency and accuracy. 

Will your content be different than what you have on your regular website? 

Sometimes, but not always, it should be different, such as if your target is in your store where they can find a coupon on their phone that may not have popped up at home (that has to do with geo-targeting and an entirely new blog post). If we are talking about blogs, then your content should stay the same, but should it look the same? So many questions.

If you need different content on your mobile site, or your target will be searching for various terms when using a mobile device, there are effective ways to do this, such as adding a mobile URL if you need to.

What about animation and video?

If your blog, website, article, or newsletter has flash components, and you want people to read it on a mobile device, you should seriously consider whether this technology is worth it. Flash animation, video, and navigation content do not mesh well at all with mobile devices and can take away from the user’s experience and your exposure.

That being said, you don’t have to get rid of video completely. Just make it more mobile-friendly. Video is growing in popularity because it creates a more personal connection between customers and businesses. Since Flash is sometimes out of the picture, video can be viewed easier on small mobile screens, resizing automatically to fit any device, with website developer tricks. You can also link your content to YouTube if you like.

Think about the user experience

Lastly, think about your user and design your mobile page for touch screens. This means links and buttons should be big enough to tap with a finger. Make sure the button has an indent or is highlighted when it is touched so that the person knows the link is loading. Phone numbers should be click-to-call, and reorganize your drop-down menus so that they are easy to understand.

Your mobile site is no longer just an extension of your website. It is an equal partner when promoting your business. Give it some love, and your customers will love you for it.