Over the past few years, there has been a major shift in the world of website design towards a “mobile first” approach. This means designing a website with the mobile user in mind as the primary audience, rather than designing a desktop website and then adapting it for mobile devices. In this article, we will explore the “mobile first” trend and the reasons behind its growing popularity, based on real data from 2020-2022.
The Rise of Mobile Usage
One of the main factors driving the “mobile first” trend is the rapid rise in mobile device usage. In 2021, the number of mobile phone users worldwide is expected to reach 7.1 billion, up from 6.8 billion in the previous year (Statista, 2021). This means that mobile devices are becoming the preferred way for people to access the internet and engage with online content.
In fact, a study by BroadbandSearch found that mobile devices accounted for 50.81% of global internet traffic in 2020, compared to just 47.73% for desktop devices (BroadbandSearch, 2020). This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, with mobile internet usage projected to reach 61.2% by 2025 (Statista, 2021).
Given the growing importance of mobile devices in online interactions, it is not surprising that website designers and developers are placing a greater emphasis on designing for the mobile user experience.
The Benefits of a Mobile First Approach
There are several benefits to taking a mobile first approach to website design. One of the main advantages is that it can lead to a better overall user experience for both mobile and desktop users. By focusing on the mobile user experience, designers are forced to prioritize simplicity and clarity in their designs, which can make the website easier to use for all users.
In addition, a mobile first approach can improve website performance and speed. By focusing on designing for the constraints of mobile devices, designers are forced to create leaner, more efficient websites that load quickly on all devices. This can lead to a better user experience and lower bounce rates.
Another benefit of a mobile first approach is that it can increase accessibility for users with disabilities. Mobile devices are often used by people with disabilities, such as those with visual impairments who rely on screen readers. By designing with mobile accessibility in mind, website designers can ensure that their websites are accessible to all users, regardless of their device or abilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the “mobile first” trend in website design is driven by the rapid rise in mobile device usage and the growing importance of designing for the mobile user experience. A mobile first approach offers several benefits, including a better overall user experience, improved website performance, and increased accessibility for users with disabilities. Real examples of successful mobile first design demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in improving business outcomes, including increased conversions and revenue.
As mobile device usage continues to grow, it is becoming increasingly important for website designers and developers to prioritize the mobile user experience. A mobile first approach can help businesses stay ahead of the competition and better serve their customers in a rapidly changing online landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, UX is a crucial factor in the success of an eCommerce website. A good UX can lead to increased sales, customer loyalty, and a larger market share, while a poor UX can result in high shopping cart abandonment rates and a negative reputation. As eCommerce sales continue to grow and mobile devices become the preferred method of shopping for many consumers, it is more important than ever for online retailers to focus on UX in their website design and development.
By investing in UX research and design, online retailers can create websites that are easy to use, visually appealing, and optimized for all devices, including mobile devices. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth marketing. In a highly competitive eCommerce landscape, a strong UX can be the difference between success and failure.