Mobile Optimisation and Why is it Important for SEO?
Mobile optimisation refers to the process of ensuring that a website is designed, developed and optimised to function efficiently and effectively on mobile devices. With the exponential growth of mobile usage, mobile optimisation has become a vital aspect of website development and search engine optimisation (SEO). In this article, we will delve deeper into what mobile optimisation is, why it is essential for SEO, and how it can be achieved.
Mobile optimisation involves designing a website in such a way that it can be viewed easily and comfortably on a small mobile screen. This includes optimising the layout, fonts, images, and functionality of the website. A well-optimised mobile website will load quickly, display all content correctly, and be easy to navigate using touch-based inputs such as swipes and taps.
Why is mobile optimisation important for SEO?
Google, the most popular search engine, takes mobile optimisation seriously. With the majority of internet users accessing the internet via mobile devices, Google has prioritised mobile-friendliness in its ranking algorithms. In 2015, Google released an update known as Mobilegeddon, which changed the way websites were ranked on mobile devices. The update prioritised mobile-friendly websites, which led to a massive shift in how websites were developed and optimised for mobile devices.
Today, mobile optimisation is no longer an option but a necessity for any website that aims to rank well on search engines. Mobile optimisation impacts SEO in various ways, including:
Improved user experience
Mobile optimisation leads to a better user experience for visitors to a website. A well-optimised website will load quickly, and its content will be easily accessible and readable on a small mobile screen. Visitors will be able to navigate the website easily, leading to longer dwell times, which can positively impact a website’s ranking.
Reduced bounce rates
Bounce rates refer to the percentage of visitors who leave a website after visiting only one page. High bounce rates can negatively impact a website’s ranking. Mobile optimisation can reduce bounce rates by providing a better user experience, which encourages visitors to explore the website further.
Increased visibility on search engines
Mobile optimisation can improve a website’s visibility on search engines, leading to more organic traffic. Google prioritises mobile-friendly websites in its search engine results pages (SERPs). A well-optimised website will rank higher on SERPs, leading to more clicks and visitors.
Competitive advantage
Mobile optimisation can give a website a competitive advantage over other websites that are not mobile-friendly. With the majority of internet users accessing the internet via mobile devices, websites that are not mobile-optimised will lose out on potential traffic and customers.
Higher conversion rates
Mobile optimisation can lead to higher conversion rates. A well-optimised website will provide a better user experience, leading to increased engagement and trust. Visitors are more likely to convert into customers if they have a positive experience on a website.