In a number of previous blog posts, we have outlined the importance of incorporating responsive design into your website to ensure it is compatible across a number of devices. We stressed the importance of this because of the ‘mobile revolution’ and huge increases in the number of people accessing the web through their mobile. However, the biggest reason yet to point towards the importance of responsive design has recently been announced by Google in the form of an algorithm change.
The algorithm change on April 21st brings with it a massive increase in the weight it is giving to mobile friendliness in terms of it being a search ranking factor. Google recently released this statement:
"Starting April 21, we will be expanding our use of mobile-friendliness as a ranking signal. This change will affect mobile searches in all languages worldwide and will have a significant impact in our search results. Consequently, users will find it easier to get relevant, high quality search results that are optimized for their devices."
This means that, due to Google increasing the importance of mobile friendliness as a ranking signal, not having responsive design incorporated into your site will significantly impact search engine performance with Google prioritising mobile friendly sites. If websites are not suited to the device that is viewing them then they will be ranked lower. The algorithm change also means that when a Google search is conducted using a mobile device, Google will highlight sites that are mobile friendly.
As previously mentioned, this algorithm change is one of many factors that are making including responsive design in your site a necessity. Not only can it affect your search engine results pages ranking, it can also future proof your site against any advancements/changes in mobile technology. By making your site easy to view, navigate and interact with on mobiles and tablets, you are far more likely to encourage engagement with your content. With 60% of internet access now coming from mobile devices, it is of vital importance that your site is mobile friendly.
To learn more about our responsive design service and how we can help future proof your site for the mobile generation, get in touch with Ascensor today!