In today’s digital world, having a website is essential for small businesses, but it’s no longer enough to have a site that only looks good on a desktop. With more people accessing the internet through their smartphones and tablets, having a mobile-responsive website is critical for reaching and engaging customers. A mobile-responsive design ensures that your website adapts seamlessly to different screen sizes, providing an optimal user experience across all devices.
In this post, we’ll explore why every small business needs a mobile-responsive website and how it can help you stay competitive, capture more customers, and boost your online presence.
The Rise of Mobile Usage
Mobile devices are now the primary way people browse the internet. Whether they’re searching for local services, shopping online, or checking reviews, customers increasingly rely on their smartphones for quick and easy access to information. For small businesses, this means that if your website isn’t mobile-friendly, you risk losing a significant portion of your audience.
Key Mobile Usage Statistics:
Over 50% of global website traffic now comes from mobile devices.
74% of mobile users are more likely to return to a mobile-friendly website.
61% of users are unlikely to return to a website if they had trouble accessing it on their mobile device.
A mobile-responsive website ensures that your business remains accessible to customers no matter where they are, improving engagement and driving more traffic to your site.
Enhancing User Experience Across All Devices
User experience (UX) is one of the most important factors in the success of your website. If visitors land on your site and find it difficult to navigate or interact with, they’re likely to leave — resulting in lost leads and sales. A mobile-responsive website ensures that users on smartphones and tablets have the same smooth experience as those on desktop computers.
Why User Experience Matters:
Easy Navigation: Mobile-responsive websites are designed to be easily navigable, with menus, buttons, and content adjusting to fit smaller screens. This prevents users from having to zoom in or struggle with tiny buttons.
Fast Loading Times: Mobile-responsive sites are optimised for speed, ensuring that pages load quickly on mobile devices. Slow-loading websites frustrate users and can lead to higher bounce rates.
Touch-Friendly Design: A responsive website takes into account the way users interact with their devices, ensuring that buttons and links are large enough to tap easily.
By providing a positive user experience on mobile, your website will keep visitors engaged, increasing the likelihood that they’ll take action, whether it’s making a purchase, contacting you, or signing up for your services.
Search engine optimisation (SEO) is crucial for getting your website in front of potential customers, and mobile responsiveness plays a significant role in how search engines rank your site. In 2018, Google implemented mobile-first indexing, meaning that it primarily uses the mobile version of your website when determining rankings.
How Mobile-Responsive Design Improves SEO:
Mobile-First Indexing: Google prioritises websites that are mobile-responsive. If your site isn’t optimised for mobile devices, you could see a drop in your rankings, making it harder for potential customers to find you.
Lower Bounce Rates: A mobile-responsive site reduces the likelihood that visitors will leave after viewing just one page, which is a positive signal to search engines.
Improved Page Speed: Mobile-optimised websites tend to load faster, and page speed is a ranking factor in Google’s algorithm.
With a mobile-responsive website, you’re not only providing a better experience for your users but also improving your chances of ranking higher in search results — driving more organic traffic to your site.
Catering to Local Search and “Near Me” Queries
For small businesses, local search is a powerful tool for attracting customers. Many people use their mobile devices to search for businesses, especially when they’re looking for nearby services. Phrases like “restaurants near me” or “plumbers in Auckland” are common in mobile searches, and Google often tailors results based on the user’s location.
How Mobile-Responsive Design Supports Local SEO:
Google My Business Integration: A mobile-responsive website works hand-in-hand with local SEO efforts like Google My Business, ensuring that your business appears in local search results and map listings.
Mobile-Friendly Search Results: When users search for services on their mobile devices, Google prioritises mobile-friendly websites in the results. A mobile-responsive site increases your chances of appearing at the top of these searches.
Call or Visit with One Click: Mobile-optimised sites can include features like click-to-call buttons and integrated maps, making it easy for users to contact or visit your business directly from their mobile device.
If your website isn’t optimised for mobile, you could be missing out on valuable local traffic, especially from customers who are ready to make a purchase or book a service.
Blank Canvas – Real estate photography, videography, and marketing agency in Auckland, New Zealand.
Staying Competitive in a Mobile-First World
In an increasingly competitive market, having a mobile-responsive website is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. Small businesses that fail to invest in mobile optimisation risk falling behind competitors who provide a seamless experience across all devices.
Why Mobile Responsiveness is Critical for Competitiveness:
Customer Expectations: Today’s consumers expect websites to be mobile-friendly. If they have a poor experience on your site, they’re likely to turn to a competitor that offers a better mobile experience.
Improved Conversion Rates: A responsive design that looks good and functions well on mobile devices helps drive conversions. Whether your goal is to generate leads, increase sales, or book appointments, mobile optimisation can significantly boost your results.
Adapting to Future Trends: As mobile technology continues to evolve, having a responsive website ensures that your business stays ahead of the curve and adapts to changing consumer behaviours.
By making mobile responsiveness a priority, you’re not only improving the experience for your current customers but also positioning your business to attract new customers and grow in the future.
Maximising Your Paid Advertising Campaigns
If you’re running Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or other forms of digital advertising, a mobile-responsive website is essential for getting the best return on your investment. Many users will click on your ads from their mobile devices, and if your website isn’t optimised for mobile, you could be wasting ad spend.
How Mobile Design Supports Paid Ads:
Mobile-Friendly Landing Pages: Ensure that the landing pages tied to your ads are mobile-optimised, with fast loading times, clear CTAs, and easy-to-use forms. This will increase your chances of converting visitors who arrive from mobile ads.
Seamless User Journey: Mobile-responsive websites provide a seamless user experience from ad click to conversion. Whether you’re running ads for ecommerce products, local services, or lead generation, mobile optimization ensures that users can complete the desired action without frustration.
A mobile-responsive website maximises the effectiveness of your digital marketing campaigns, ensuring that every click has the potential to turn into a conversion.
Google Analytics Dashboard
Building Trust and Credibility with Customers
A mobile-responsive website reflects the professionalism and credibility of your business. Customers associate a well-designed, easy-to-navigate website with a trustworthy and reliable brand. On the other hand, a poorly designed or non-responsive website can make your business appear outdated or unprofessional.
How Mobile Design Builds Trust:
Consistent Branding: A responsive website ensures that your branding — from logos to colours and typography — is consistent across all devices. This consistency builds recognition and trust with your audience.
Positive User Experience: When visitors have a smooth experience on your site, they’re more likely to trust your business and feel confident in making a purchase or booking a service.
Professionalism: A well-designed mobile website shows that you’re committed to meeting the needs of your customers, enhancing your credibility and reputation.
In a competitive market, trust and credibility can make all the difference. A mobile-responsive website helps you build stronger relationships with your customers and encourages them to choose your business over the competition.
Conclusion
In today’s mobile-first world, having a mobile-responsive website is essential for the success of any small business. From enhancing user experience and improving search rankings to capturing local traffic and boosting conversions, a mobile-responsive design offers countless benefits that can help your business grow.
Whether you’re looking to attract more local customers, stay competitive, or increase your online sales, investing in a mobile-friendly website is one of the most effective ways to achieve your business goals. Don’t let your small business get left behind — make mobile responsiveness a priority and position your business for long-term success.
When planning a new website for your business, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to go for a custom website design or use a template-based design. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your specific business needs, goals, and budget.
In this post, we’ll dive into the differences between custom and template-based website designs, exploring the pros and cons of each to help you determine which approach is right for your business.
What Is a Custom Website Design?
A custom website design is a website built from scratch, designed specifically to meet the unique needs of your business. Everything from the layout to the functionality is tailored to your brand, allowing for full control over how your website looks and operates.
Key Features of a Custom Website Design:
Unique Design: No two custom websites are alike. The design is created specifically for your business, ensuring that your site stands out from competitors.
Scalable: Custom websites are built with flexibility in mind, allowing you to easily add new features or expand your site as your business grows.
Tailored Functionality: Whether you need complex ecommerce functionality, integration with third-party tools, or custom forms, a custom website can be built to accommodate your specific requirements.
Want to find out how a custom site design can boost up your business? Check out our article here!
Custom site design – Daniell Ledger’s photography portfolio website
What Is a Template-Based Website Design?
A template-based website design uses pre-designed website layouts that can be customised to a certain extent.
Key Features of a Template-Based Website Design:
Pre-Designed Layouts: Templates provide a starting point with pre-made layouts that can be adjusted with your business’s branding, images, and content.
Faster Setup: Template-based websites can be up and running in a fraction of the time compared to custom websites.
Lower Cost: Since the design and development work is already done, template-based websites are typically much more affordable than custom builds.
WRKS New Zealand – Template website design
The Pros and Cons of Custom Website Design
Pros of Custom Website Design:
Full Customisation: A custom design gives you complete control over every aspect of your website. You can create a unique user experience that perfectly aligns with your brand and business goals.
Built for Your Business: Custom websites are designed to meet the specific needs of your business. Whether you need advanced functionality, such as booking systems or integrations with other software, a custom website can be tailored to fit your exact requirements.
Scalable: As your business grows, so can your website. Custom websites are built to evolve with your business, allowing you to add new features and pages as needed.
Unique Brand Identity: A custom website allows your business to stand out from the crowd. Unlike template-based websites, which can look similar to others, a custom design reflects your brand’s unique identity.
SEO-Friendly: A custom website can be optimised for search engines from the ground up. You’ll have full control over site structure, meta tags, and other important SEO elements, giving you a better chance of ranking higher in search results.
Cons of Custom Website Design:
Higher Cost: Custom websites are more expensive because they require more design and development time. The cost of a custom website can range significantly depending on complexity.
Longer Development Time: Building a website from scratch takes time. If you need a website up quickly, a custom design may not be the best option.
Ongoing Maintenance: Custom websites may require more maintenance and updates over time, especially if you’re adding new features or upgrading technology.
The Pros and Cons of Template-Based Website Design
Pros of Template-Based Website Design:
Cost-Effective: One of the biggest advantages of a template-based design is the cost. Because the design is pre-made, you can save significantly on design and development fees.
Quick to Launch: Template-based websites can be set up and launched much faster than custom websites. This makes them an ideal solution for businesses that need to get online quickly.
User-Friendly: Many template-based platforms, like WordPress, come with user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for non-technical users to update content and make changes.
Wide Range of Options: There are thousands of templates available, so businesses can choose a layout that closely matches their vision and customise it to fit their brand.
Cons of Template-Based Website Design:
Limited Customisation: While templates offer some customisation options, they are generally limited to basic changes like colours, fonts, and images. You may not be able to fully customise the site to meet your specific needs.
Not Unique: Since templates are widely available, it’s possible that other businesses — including your competitors — are using the same design. This can make it harder for your brand to stand out.
Less Scalable: Template-based websites aren’t always built with scalability in mind. As your business grows and you need more advanced functionality, you may find that a template can’t accommodate your needs without significant workarounds.
SEO Limitations: While some templates are optimised for SEO, many come with limitations that can affect your ability to rank well in search engines. Customising SEO elements may be difficult or require third-party plugins.
Which Option Is Right for Your Business?
Deciding between a custom website design and a template-based design ultimately comes down to your business’s specific needs, goals, and budget. Here’s how to determine which option is best for you.
Go for a Custom Website Design if:
You want a completely unique website that reflects your brand identity.
You need specific features and functionality that a template can’t provide.
Your business is growing and you want a scalable website that can expand as needed.
You have the budget to invest in a long-term, custom solution that will differentiate your business.
Go for a Template-Based Website Design if:
You need a website quickly and on a tight budget.
You’re a small business or startup that doesn’t need complex functionality.
You’re looking for a simple, user-friendly way to manage your website.
You’re okay with some limitations on customisation and don’t mind using a pre-designed template that other businesses may also use.
An Ecommerce furniture website template design
Hybrid Solutions: Customising a Template
If neither option seems like a perfect fit, a hybrid approach may be the solution. Some businesses choose to start with a template and invest in customising it to better meet their needs. This approach offers a balance between affordability and customisation, allowing you to get more control over your website’s design without starting from scratch.
Advantages of a Hybrid Approach:
Lower Cost: You save on design costs by using a template as a base, while still getting the custom features and look that align with your brand.
Faster Launch: Since you’re not building from scratch, you can get your website up and running faster than a fully custom solution.
Customisation Potential: Depending on the platform and template you choose, you can still make significant customisations to your site’s functionality and design.
This option is particularly useful for small to mid-sized businesses that want a more tailored website without the high cost of a fully custom design.
Conclusion
Choosing between a custom website design and a template-based design comes down to understanding your business’s current needs, goals, and budget. Custom websites offer full control, flexibility, and scalability, making them ideal for businesses that require unique features and a strong brand presence. On the other hand, template-based designs provide an affordable, fast solution for businesses that need a straightforward website without the complexity of custom development.
Whichever route you choose, it’s important to consider your long-term goals and how your website will grow with your business. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, consult with a professional website designer who can help guide you through the decision-making process.
With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and thriving tourism industry, Rotorua is an ideal place for small businesses to grow. However, in an increasingly digital world having a professional website is crucial to maintaining that growth and staying competitive. For many local businesses investing in a well-designed website can be the key to unlocking new opportunities, attracting more customers, and standing out in the Rotorua market.
In this post we’ll explore why small businesses in Rotorua should invest in professional website design and how it can help drive local success.
Increasing Visibility in Rotorua’s Local Market
Rotorua’s economy is supported by tourism, local services, and small businesses. With more people relying on the internet to find products and services, having a professional website can significantly increase your business’s visibility in the local market.
How Website Design Boosts Local Visibility:
Online Search Behaviour: Many Rotorua residents and tourists search online before visiting local businesses. A well-designed website optimised for local search terms (e.g., “Rotorua restaurant” or “Rotorua spa services”) can help your business appear higher in search engine results.
Google My Business Integration: A website that integrates with Google My Business enhances your local SEO efforts, helping your business appear in map results and local search queries. This increases your chances of attracting nearby customers.
By investing in professional website design, you ensure that your business is visible and easily accessible to both locals and visitors who are searching for services in Rotorua.
Building Credibility and Trust with a Professional Website
For small businesses, establishing credibility is key to gaining the trust of potential customers. A well-designed website serves as an online storefront, offering potential customers a glimpse into your professionalism and the quality of your products or services.
How a Website Builds Credibility:
First Impressions: A professional website gives visitors confidence in your business. A sleek design, clear branding, and user-friendly navigation create a positive first impression, encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore.
Showcasing Testimonials: Your website is the perfect platform to showcase customer reviews, testimonials, and success stories. This helps build trust and social proof, especially for new customers who may be unfamiliar with your business.
Certifications and Awards: If your business has received local awards or certifications, displaying these on your website adds credibility and reinforces your reputation within the Rotorua community and beyond.
In a competitive market like Rotorua, a professional website can set you apart from other businesses and build the trust you need to grow your customer base.
A rehabilitation business website template.
Attracting More Tourists to Your Business
Rotorua’s vibrant tourism industry brings thousands of visitors each year, and many of them turn to the internet to find local attractions, accommodations, and services. Having a strong online presence ensures that your business can attract more tourists and take advantage of the influx of visitors.
How Website Design Helps Attract Tourists:
Mobile-Friendly Design: Many tourists rely on their mobile devices to search for activities, dining options, and services while travelling. A responsive, mobile-friendly website ensures that visitors can easily find your business on the go.
Clear Calls to Action (CTAs): Encourage tourists to book services, make reservations, or visit your store with clear and engaging CTAs. Whether you’re offering a guided tour, a spa treatment, or a restaurant dining experience, your website should make it easy for tourists to take the next step.
Multilingual Options: Rotorua attracts tourists from around the world. If you cater to international visitors, consider incorporating multilingual features into your website to provide a better experience for non-English speaking tourists.
By optimising your website for tourists, you can expand your reach and increase bookings or sales from visitors to Rotorua.
Improving Local SEO to Drive Traffic and Sales
Search engine optimisation (SEO) is a critical factor in how well your website performs in search engines like Google. Local SEO in particular helps small businesses target potential customers in Rotorua who are searching for products or services nearby. Professional website design includes SEO best practices, helping your business rank higher in local search results and attract more traffic.
Local SEO Tactics for Rotorua Businesses:
Targeting Local Keywords: A well-designed website will incorporate locally relevant keywords, such as “Rotorua plumber” or “Rotorua hair salon,” to help you appear in searches conducted by people looking for services in the area.
Location-Specific Landing Pages: If your business serves multiple areas, creating location-specific landing pages with unique content for each area can improve your local SEO rankings.
Local Listings: A professional website design team will ensure that your business is listed on local directories and review sites, further boosting your visibility in local searches.
With strong local SEO, your website will become a powerful tool for driving more traffic, increasing sales, and connecting with customers in Rotorua.
Google Analytics Dashboard
Enhancing Customer Experience with User-Friendly Design
One of the key benefits of investing in professional website design is the focus on user experience (UX). A well-designed website is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and provides users with the information they need quickly and efficiently. For Rotorua businesses, this translates into happier customers and better conversion rates.
Why User-Friendly Design Matters:
Simple Navigation: Visitors to your website should be able to find what they’re looking for within a few clicks. A clean, intuitive navigation structure helps users easily locate important pages, such as services, pricing, and contact information.
Fast Loading Speeds: A slow website can frustrate visitors and drive them away. Professional website design ensures that your site is optimised for speed, offering a fast and seamless browsing experience for all users.
Optimised for Conversions: Whether your goal is to increase bookings, generate inquiries, or sell products online, a well-designed website will feature clear CTAs, easy-to-use forms, and a logical layout to drive conversions.
By enhancing the user experience, your website will engage more visitors, keep them on your site longer, and increase the likelihood that they will convert into paying customers.
Competing with Larger Businesses and Franchises
Small businesses in Rotorua often face competition from larger, well-established companies or franchises. While larger businesses may have bigger marketing budgets, a professional website can level the playing field by showcasing the unique value your small business offers.
How Website Design Helps You Compete:
Differentiation: A custom-designed website allows you to highlight what makes your business special. Whether it’s personalised customer service, unique products, or deep local knowledge, your website can showcase what sets you apart from larger competitors.
Professional Appearance: A professional website gives small businesses the appearance of a larger, more established company. This can boost your credibility and help you compete with bigger brands.
Local Focus: By emphasising your local roots and commitment to the Rotorua community, you can attract customers who prefer to support local businesses over large corporations.
With the right design strategy, your small business can effectively compete with larger companies and establish a strong foothold in the Rotorua market.
Brick & Mortar store vs E-commerce
Future-Proofing Your Business
In today’s rapidly changing digital landscape, businesses that invest in professional website design are better equipped to adapt to future trends and challenges. A well-designed website can grow with your business, allowing you to easily add new features, content, or functionality as your needs evolve.
Why Future-Proofing Matters:
Scalability: As your business expands, your website should be able to accommodate new services, products, or locations. A professionally designed website offers the flexibility and scalability to grow alongside your business.
Adaptability: With new web technologies and customer expectations emerging constantly, having a website that can easily be updated and adapted is essential for staying relevant in the long term.
Regular Updates and Maintenance: A professional website design company can provide ongoing support and maintenance to keep your site secure, up-to-date, and optimised for performance as your business evolves.
By investing in a future-proof website, your small business will be well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the digital world for years to come.
Conclusion
For small businesses in Rotorua, investing in professional website design is more than just a marketing tactic — it’s a strategic decision that can drive long-term growth and success. From increasing local visibility to improving user experience and boosting conversions, a well-designed website offers countless benefits that can help your business thrive in a competitive market.
Whether your goal is to attract more tourists, build credibility with local customers, or compete with larger businesses, a professional website is an investment that will continue to deliver returns. Don’t let your small business get left behind — invest in a website that showcases your brand, engages your audience, and supports your growth in Rotorua.
Web design is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the latest trends is essential for businesses looking to maintain a modern and competitive online presence. As we move through 2024, new technologies, user behaviours, and design principles are shaping the future of web design. From AI-driven personalisation to immersive virtual experiences, the trends emerging this year will redefine how businesses engage with their audiences online.
In this post, we’ll explore the top web design trends to watch in 2024 and how incorporating these innovations can help future-proof your website.
AI-Driven Personalisation
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way websites interact with users, delivering personalised experiences based on user behaviour, preferences, and data insights. In 2024, AI-driven personalisation is becoming even more sophisticated, offering dynamic content and recommendations that enhance user engagement.
How AI Personalisation Impacts Web Design:
Dynamic Content: AI can analyse user data in real time, delivering tailored content such as product recommendations, personalised greetings, or location-based offers.
Behavioural Insights: AI-powered tools track user behaviour to predict what users are likely to do next, allowing websites to serve relevant content or guide users through the conversion funnel more effectively.
Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: AI chatbots are becoming more human-like, providing real-time customer service, answering questions, and even making product suggestions based on user input.
By integrating AI into your web design, you can create a more engaging and personalised user experience that boosts conversions and customer loyalty.
Immersive Experiences with VR and AR
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are making their way into mainstream web design, creating immersive experiences that go beyond traditional two-dimensional browsing. These technologies allow users to interact with products or environments in ways that weren’t possible before, particularly in industries like real estate, fashion, and retail.
How VR and AR Enhance User Interaction:
Virtual Try-Ons: Ecommerce businesses, especially in fashion and beauty, are using AR to allow customers to virtually “try on” products, from clothes to makeup, before making a purchase.
Interactive Product Demos: For industries like furniture, home décor, or real estate, VR can provide 360-degree views or virtual walkthroughs of products, giving users a deeper sense of what they’re buying.
Immersive Brand Experiences: AR filters or VR experiences can be used in marketing campaigns, creating memorable and interactive experiences that differentiate your brand from competitors.
As AR and VR technologies become more accessible, incorporating them into your website can provide an engaging and immersive experience that captivates users and enhances decision-making.
The trend toward minimalist web design continues through 2024, but with a stronger emphasis on functionality and performance. Rather than focusing solely on aesthetics, minimalist design in 2024 will prioritise clarity, simplicity, and the user journey. Clean lines, ample white space, and intuitive layouts help users find what they need quickly and without distractions.
Key Elements of Functional Minimalism:
Clutter-Free Layouts: Simplified navigation menus and stripped-down interfaces help users focus on key content or actions. This reduces cognitive load and makes browsing more intuitive.
Fewer, More Impactful Elements: By limiting design elements, such as animations or large images, websites can load faster and perform better across devices, improving user experience.
Focus on User Intent: Minimalist design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about understanding user intent and designing with the goal of helping visitors accomplish tasks quickly and efficiently.
By embracing minimalist design with a focus on functionality, your website can deliver a sleek, modern experience that’s both visually appealing and easy to navigate.
Microinteractions for Enhanced User Engagement
Microinteractions are small, subtle design elements that provide feedback or enhance the user experience in an almost invisible way. These tiny animations or responses, such as a button changing colour when hovered over or a small sound effect when an action is completed, add personality to a website and make interactions feel more natural.
Examples of Microinteractions:
Hover Effects: Buttons or icons that change colour, grow in size, or animate slightly when hovered over provide instant feedback, making the user feel more connected to the interface.
Form Validation: Instant feedback when users fill out forms (such as check marks when fields are correct or red text for errors) reduces frustration and helps guide users through the process.
Loading Animations: A small spinning icon or progress bar during loading times reassures users that the page is working and reduces the perceived wait time.
Microinteractions not only enhance usability but also add an element of delight that can make your website feel more interactive and engaging. These subtle design touches can lead to improved user satisfaction and higher engagement rates.
As businesses become more eco-conscious, so does web design. In 2024, sustainability plays a large role in digital development, with websites designed to minimise their environmental impact. Energy-efficient design practices not only benefit the environment but can also improve website performance and user experience.
Sustainability in Web Design:
Lightweight Pages: Websites with optimised images, minimised code, and fewer elements require less energy to load and run, reducing their carbon footprint. These optimisations also improve load times, benefiting both users and the environment.
Green Hosting: Choosing web hosting providers that use renewable energy or carbon-neutral technologies is becoming a popular choice for businesses looking to reduce their digital impact.
Dark Mode: Offering a dark mode option not only provides a better viewing experience in low-light environments but also reduces energy consumption, particularly on OLED screens.
Incorporating sustainability into your web design practices reflects your brand’s values and demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact, which can resonate with eco-conscious consumers.
Voice User Interface (VUI) Optimisation
With the rise of voice search and virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, optimising your website for voice interaction is becoming increasingly important. Voice user interfaces (VUI) enable users to interact with websites using natural language, creating a more intuitive and accessible experience.
Voice-Optimised Design Strategies:
Conversational Interfaces: As voice search grows, websites will need to be optimised for conversational queries. This means focusing on longer, natural language phrases rather than short, keyword-driven terms.
Voice Search Integration: Implementing voice search functionality on your website can help users find information quickly, especially on mobile devices or hands-free setups.
Structured Data for Voice Search: Using structured data (schema markup) makes it easier for search engines to extract relevant information from your website and deliver concise answers to voice search queries.
Voice interfaces are becoming an essential part of the user experience, especially as more people rely on voice-activated devices. Optimising for voice search ensures that your website remains accessible and user-friendly in this growing trend.
Asymmetrical Layouts and Experimental Grids
Asymmetry and unconventional grid layouts are gaining popularity in web design, offering a bold, dynamic alternative to traditional, symmetrical designs. These layouts break away from the rigid structure of grid-based design, allowing for more creativity and visually engaging compositions.
Benefits of Asymmetrical Design:
Unique Visual Appeal: Asymmetrical layouts stand out from the uniformity of typical websites, capturing user attention and creating a memorable browsing experience.
Directing User Focus: By breaking traditional grids, you can guide users’ eyes to specific sections of your site, highlighting key content, calls to action, or products.
Brand Personality: Asymmetry allows for more creative freedom, enabling you to express your brand’s personality in a way that feels fresh, modern, and original.
While asymmetrical designs can be more challenging to execute, they offer a unique and engaging experience that differentiates your brand from competitors.
Layout design from MakeYourMove Rehabilitation
Conclusion
As web design trends continue to evolve, businesses must adapt to stay competitive and meet changing user expectations. From AI-driven personalization and immersive VR experiences to minimalist design and voice interfaces, the trends shaping 2024 offer exciting opportunities to enhance user engagement, improve performance, and future-proof your website.
By incorporating these trends into your website, you can create a modern, high-performing digital experience that resonates with your audience and positions your business for long-term success. Don’t just follow the trends — embrace them strategically to ensure your website remains relevant, engaging, and ahead of the curve.
If you want a hand or to find out more, you can contact Builtflat here.
The world of website design is constantly evolving, and 2023 is shaping up to be a year of exciting new trends and innovations. From minimalist designs to immersive 3D experiences, there are a variety of ways that businesses and designers are looking to make an impact and stand out from the crowd. Here are some of the key trends to watch for in the coming year.
Minimalism has been a popular trend for several years now, and it’s not going away anytime soon. This approach to design emphasizes simplicity and clean lines, often using a limited color palette and negative space to create an elegant, uncluttered look. The focus is on showcasing content, rather than the design itself, making minimalism a great choice for businesses that want to convey a sense of professionalism and sophistication.
As technology continues to advance, website designers are finding new ways to create immersive and interactive experiences for users. 3D graphics and animations are becoming more popular, allowing designers to create stunning, lifelike environments that users can explore and interact with. This trend is particularly popular in e-commerce and gaming, but it’s also finding its way into other industries as well.
Dark mode has been a hot trend in the tech industry for a while now, and it’s finally making its way into website design. This feature makes websites easier on the eyes by using a dark background and light text, which is especially helpful for users who spend a lot of time staring at their screens. It’s also a great way to create a moody, sophisticated look that’s perfect for high-end brands and businesses.
In conclusion, these are just a few of the exciting trends that we can expect to see in 2023. Whether you’re a business owner or a designer, these trends provide a wealth of opportunities to create unique and engaging websites that stand out from the crowd. So, get ready to experiment and take your website design to the next level!
Taking that first step to digitise your business can be a hard one. You have to navigate through millions of websites offering you a product that will (probably not) increase revenue, efficiency or some metric related to size.. Don’t do it, it’s a trap! It’s tough avoiding those cheap parlor offers when taking your first steps online, especially if you don’t know what’s out there in the community. Regardless of these ‘snake oil’ sales websites – we believe the benefits
So to do our part, we at Builtflat have compiled a list of online tools or methods to help you simplify and take full advantage of your digital journey. These tools range from free to paid options and are perfect for any type of website from e-commerce to entertainment, no matter the category or industry.
Let’s start with the free tools!
Social Media.
Connect better with your customers.
Thousands of people around the world have started and successfully run their business solely on social media, thousands more use it to supplement their business structure and growth.
Social media is an interesting one that a lot of businesses neglect, usually saying it’s not worth the time or that their audience isn’t targetable. You only have to look at the growth of social media channels over the past decade to know that there is nowhere else in the world where you can reach so many people in one space. And targetability.. Think about websites like Facebook and the details they gather from you when you sign up, plus all the page Likes and Follows, the groups you’re in, the location data, your friends and even their interests. All that can be used at your disposal.
Starting off you’ll need to get an idea of your ideal target customer and keep that image of the person in your mind, or better yet – write it down. Then it’s time to pick your platforms and there’s a few to choose from. Use your identified target customer for reference when picking and have a look through the stats of each. For instance, Instagram is very popular with those ages 18 to 24 whereas Facebook with 2 billion monthly active users is more popular with those aged between 25 to 34.
Once you’ve picked out the appropriate channels you’ll need to start planning your approach. Think about how you can connect to your target audience through your profile and build around that. Are they after professionalism? Would a good laugh help convert them? Would making the brand seem more humane create a great connection with your customer base? Build that into your profile and your approach to your customers on these channels.
Next, think about the content you would create and how often it could be created. I always think of Social Media as a content beast, constantly hungry for content. This doesn’t mean you need to overfeed the beast – It means you need to be active and keep him on the appropriate diet. Tie this in with Social Media analytics and you’ll be able to spot the perfect recipe to feed him with down to the type, time, quantity, and more. Protip: Having a content calendar helps!
A big benefit for businesses on social media is the advertising capabilities. The targetability is insane! Not only that, it’ll give you a rough idea of your ROI and estimate the reach size of your campaign. Do it! Start off small, play around with the types of content you’re advertising, the time you’re posting, and the groups you’re targeting. Track your results and build out the roadmap for making successful advertising campaigns.
The final step is well, just taking the first step and doing it. Apart from the advertising it’s all free to set up and can be done from the comfort of your desk chair, sofa, porcelain throne, or movie theatre – Although, goodluck with that last one.
Google Analytics.
A must for any website, especially an e-commerce website.
In short – Google analytics is like a marketers wet dream.
Personally I spend hours.. I mean not hours, I do actually have a life.. Anyways – I spend an ‘amount’ of time gathering information from our own Google Analytics dashboard to better serve our customers to grow our business. This free tool is made by Google and piggybacks off your businesses website to give you accurate and insightful data to use how you see fit. It might not help you take over the world, but it’ll help you increase conversions.
Well, it doesn’t directly increase conversions.. but Google Analytics creates a space for testing and feedback so you can make those conversion increasing changes to your website. For example,
Google Analytics can show you a potential target customer base you haven’t noticed before. You could be targeting customers locally and not even realise 90% of your traffic is coming from overseas, how could you take advantage of that?
Leading on from point 1 – Google Analytics can show you the demographics of users landing on your website. This information is invaluable to any marketing strategy.
You might not even know that particular website pages are broken or turning your customers away – Google Analytics breaks down your Bounce Rate to identify where problems are so you can fix them.
You can find out how users are getting to your website – Is there a potential opportunity to capitalise on there?
Do you want your user base returning frequently to your website? You can track your user retention through Google Analytics.
Google My Business
Not literally Google my business – it’s called Google My Business.
The second free tool from Google I’m going to recommend is Google My Business (GMB). An essential for any business, GMB gives you a dedicated information feed for customers to use when they’ve organically searched for you. Imagine GMB as a basic storefront that shows your contact details, your location, your opening hours, and images related to your business.
It can even be used for finding directions to your business locations, for customers to post reviews about their experiences, or so they can colab and upload their photos of your products or store. Google’s constantly expanding on GMB and now offers an updates feed, a direct messaging option, and a space to post frequently asked questions. Offer your services, show off your menu, let customers know how they can shop with you. Google My Business is an essential free online tool.
Google Trends.
Google really likes giving out free tools!
Bit of out of the loop nowadays? You’re not alone. Trends change as often as you change your underwear.. That’s every day for those who didn’t know. Thankfully, you don’t have to be hooked into every social orifice of the wide web to keep up to date and can opt for another free tool by Google called Google Trends that lets you know what people are Googling. It’s perfect for content creation and for keeping your brand up to date with trending trendy trends.
It’s super simple to use, just search different terms and topics related to your business or marketing campaign ideas. This will give you common search phrases, related topics, and queries which can be compared against other keywords. Google Trends also lets you search geographically by area or worldview so you can see what’s trending in different locations. They even have data on previous years search trends. Pair this with a Social Media and content creation strategy and you’re good to go!
Google Drive.
Google’s all-in-one tool to help you get online.
When I first started using Google Drive as a student I was pretty reluctant to do so. After using Microsoft applications for years I was unwilling to step away from the norm but quickly I realised how behind on the times I was. Google Drive is one of the best online tools you can get nowadays and a majority of it is completely free. You can craft sharable essays, documents, presentations, spreadsheets, questionnaires or forms, and PDF’s. Not only that, you can store files and images, use Google’s Calendar, its Gmail email service, host video calls or chatrooms, manage Google advertisements, or take advantage of Google Workspace for teams.
It can be pretty overwhelming when you look at all these online tools Google offers but Google’s built all these tools to be as user friendly as possible. Not only that, they follow the same conventions as all the other tools out there, making switching easier than ever. To this day I continue to use their services daily. By integrating it into Builtflat we operate smoother, get work done faster, and in the beginning it saved us a lot of money we didn’t have to spend on expensive programs or annual subscriptions. If you’re not already a Google user or haven’t taken a full drive in, this is one online tool to check out and take advantage of.
Email Marketing
One of the earliest forms of digital marketing.
Since its conception in 1971 by a computer engineer named Ray Tomlinson, email has grown as a useful tool. So useful that it’s estimated that in 2022 333.2 billion emails [https://www.statista.com/statistics/456500/daily-number-of-e-mails-worldwide/] are sent every day. Marketers everywhere understand the power of email marketing and its ability to grow communities, relationships, and businesses. But if you’d rather see a dollar value of email marketing, check out this study which found every £1 spent on email marketing had an average return of £38 on their investment.
So, where do you get started? Getting your email list, and no I don’t mean buying one. Unless you earn those email addresses, whatever addresses you have are from people who haven’t opted in and 9/10 of them would not be happy receiving your emails. This is a two way street here, you give and you get. Experiment with different techniques for getting people to sign on to your emailing list. For instance, using competitions sign ups, trading them for discounts or free shipping, or even just asking your customers are all ways of getting emails.
If it doesn’t make dollars, it doesn’t make sense – Well Xero makes sense of the dollars!
Xero makes an often unpleasant task of dealing with the bookkeeping easier for everyone, which is why it’s made our list of digital tools to help your business. This paid cloud-based accounting software covers purchasing, managing invoicing, bookkeeping, expenses, inventory, bank reconciliation, and more from any device with an internet connection. Not only that, it’s recognised by and integrates flawlessly with hundreds of third-party applications such as Stripe, PayPal, and Capsule. This only makes Xero perform better. For instance, if you integrate Xero with Stripe your customers can then pay their bills directly with a debit or credit card.
I’m not going to overload you with Xero’s features so I’ll keep this short and sweet. From a digital developer standpoint, what I love about Xero is how easy it is to use. The UX and UI design throughout their website and application dashboard means even a dummy like me can do my GST return in 3 clicks. I never see Xero as a task to do. To me, it’s a helpful employee who takes the stress out of often-times complicated jobs, keeps me updated and informed about our books, and helps our business run smoothly.
Cloud storage
Is your head in the cloud? No? It should be!
The evolution of data based storage has transformed in leaps in bounds. From fridge-size devices to usb drives with x100 better storage and performance. Then came the Cloud which revolutionised how we accessed our stored data. Cloud based storage means your data gets stored away on servers located around the world which you can access anytime and anywhere you have an internet connection. There’s now no need for you to lug around your fridge-sized harddrives anymore! This is why Cloud storage is one of the most important digital tools to get your business online and to improve your day to day operation.
Ever lose a usb drive? Or arrive at a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten to get your presentation? How about going into the office to get some data files so you can work from home? These are some annoying situations that Cloud storage fixes, but there’s something even greater it can do, protect your data. Nowadays you always hear about businesses suffering from ransomware, an attack on your computer systems that locks you out of your files unless you pay a ransom. Well, if your files are backed up to the Cloud then you’ve still got access to them. I think that’s Hackers – 0 and Cloud storage – 1.
There’s now a lot of different options out there to get access to this great digital tool with free and paid packages ranging from 2GB to, well.. the skys the limit really. Dropbox has gained popularity in the Cloud space and offers great team packages for you to take advantage of. Even Google and Microsoft have their own in the form of Google Drive and OneDrive, each with their own features. Have a look at these three and the many others out there and get your head in the Cloud!
Website development.
What’s the point of getting online if your customers can’t find you online?
Conflict of interest here – At Builtflat we build and develop websites. But I’m not here to tell you why you should pick us to do so, I’m here to tell you why websites are the best online tool you need as a business. We’re in this line of work to help people out, not push sales.
Expectation
A while ago, if you wanted to find a business you would check the Yellow or White pages. Now, you do an internet search. There now is an expectation amongst a majority of the population that your brand will have a website they can find for information or purchasing. If they can’t, you’re really going to suffer with points 2 and 3.
Credibility
Why can’t I find your website? Are you hiding something? Do you even exist? How do I see the quality of your business? A good website answers all those questions that potential customers might ask themselves if you don’t have one. Here’s a fun fact, 74% of users admit to judging a businesses credibility just off the website design alone. How would they judge a business who doesn’t have one at all? A website is an opportunity for your business to show your customers that you’re the best, that you’re around, and that you’re ready and waiting for them whenever they want.
Sales
Think of a website as a silent salesperson who’s working 24/7 and costs less wages than any employee you could ever find. They’re just sitting there and waiting for a potential customer to land on them so they can use their integrated sales techniques to help convert them to a sale or generate a lead. With minimal effort, that’s an opportunity for you or money straight in the bank.
Market expansion and growth
If you run brick and mortar retail stores, market expansion might be opening another store in a different town or suburb. It’s definitely more reach than what you had previously but how does it stack up against having a website that can be accessed by anyone nationally or around the globe? A website offers unparalleled market expansion and growth for any brand and business. So if more opportunity and money is what you’re after, then you’re after a website.
Consumer insights
What good would all that expansion and growth be if you couldn’t grow it further! Like we covered with Google Analytics, having a website means you can access those juicy consumer insights which gives you a literal roadmap to success. Identifying potential markets, tracking promotions, finding customer issues, track retention, test changes and their outcomes, and more, and more, and more.. You get the idea.
Advertising
Having a well-built website means you have a platform to advertise that’s purpose is to convert potential customers into sales or leads, and increase brand awareness. Without one it becomes very hard to take advantage of Google’s own Google AdWords or the many other online advertising outlets available. Trust me, you want to take advantage of one of the most targetable, accurate, and cost effective marketing solutions available.
Customer service
One great ability websites offer businesses is their customer service. Not only can you reduce your customer services costs and save time, you’ve got that 24/7 sales person sitting there. They’re answering all those pricing enquiries, frequently asked questions, providing credibility and reviews, giving brand insights, showing your products and services, your office hours, your locations, and more.
Competition
It’s pretty likely that your competition has their own website, trying to take as much from the market as they can. Ramp up the competition a bit. Make it harder for them to get those easy online sales or run them out with a perfectly built website, digital marketing strategy, and some willpower.
What else..
Well, there’s heaps of reasons. Websites can make you industry leaders, an authoritative source of information, it can help build relationships with your customers, give out brand updates or promotions, help you compete with larger brands, teach consumers about your brand and offerings, show your professionalism, and your brand identity. The possibilities are kind of endless..
I really hope you’re taking advantage of these digital tools to help get your business online. If you’re not, I hope this article has given you a slight push to give them a go. Look at the offerings Google has and how it can help your marketing and online presence. At how Social Media can build a closer connection with your customers. Think about how email marketing or Stripe could grow your business, or how Xero could streamline your operations. Check out the offerings for Cloud storage because your data is an important piece of your business. Keep in mind the benefits you can reap from having a website for your brand.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article, we hope it’s helped and giving some clarity to the vast amount of digital tools available. Besides this list, there’s hundreds more tools out there just waiting for you to take advantage of. If you ever need some help or guidance in this sometimes daunting digital space, contact Builtflat anytime. We’d love to help out any way we can!
