10 Tips For Better Usability In Mobile Website Design

These days, many people do their online browsing from their smartphones and tablet devices. This has shown a lot of businesses that their websites simply aren’t mobile friendly, which has led to them being recreated. If this describes the position you currently find yourself in, we have 10 tips that you can use to ensure that your mobile website design is usable.

1. Decide on screen resolution

   Unfortunately, the mobile realm contains a variety of different screen sizes and resolutions – it’s nearly impossible to accommodate them all. Instead, you should try to strike a balance between sufficient screen width and audience size – use your best judgment.

2. Break up pages into small portions

   Lengthy sections of text can be really hard to read. So, get rid of low priority content and stick to a single column of text that wraps (so there’s no horizontal scrolling). If showing articles, for example, have the user click the link if they wish to see the rest of the piece.

3. Simplify the design

   Remember that simplicity equates to usability. Let users move around your website without any difficulties. Avoid the use of tables, frames and other formatting. If you use padding, ensure that you keep it to an absolute minimum (far less than on a desktop site).

4. Option to view the full site

   You should provide a link in your mobile website design so that users can switch back to the full site. This means that they can explore other content and features that are only available on desktop versions. It’s also a good idea to include "Back to Top" links.

5. Navigation placement

   It is imperative that you get to know your audience and be aware of what they’re looking for. How will they want to navigate your website? Most people like the navigation to be presented at the top of the page, but some do like it to be presented underneath the content.

6. Utilise text links

   Whilst your main website might use some flashy fly out menus, rollovers and other gadgetry, it’s important to note that this just isn’t viable on a mobile browser. Instead, you should opt for well-labeled text links so that users can find their way around quickly and easily.

7. Balance your links

   Remember that each page download consumes time and system resources (the latter of which are in short supply), so try not to force your users to dig through multiple pages to access the information they need. You need to strike a balance between links and depth.

8. Reduce user text entry

   Keep in mind that it can be difficult to input text from a mobile or tablet device. When asking users to enter text, try to utilise radio buttons or lists instead so that they can choose their response instead of typing it. Also try to keep URLs as short as possible.

Usability is an area that many businesses struggle with when putting together a mobile website design. We hope that the tips provided above have enabled you to create a fantastic website whilst keeping usability in mind – there is no point in it looking a million dollars if no one can figure out how to use it. Don’t be afraid to talk to the experts if you require help.

Sukhbir Mehla is the founder and CEO of digital agency, Zeemo. He started the company in December 2002, working out of his home, under the name Infinite IT Solutions.