Google’s shift to mobile first is about trying to keep its users who search the internet happy.
Google is in the process of testing its new mobile first indexing policy that will soon be in place. It matters because all businesses that have an online presence are subject to the effects of Google Search algorithms. These algorithms are steps, a calculated, complex sequence of actions that Google programs to return the most relevant search results. Realize what the new mobile first policy means for your business and learn how you can improve your website’s chances of ranking high.
Desktop Searches Were King
Everyone has heard of the popular two-word phrase “Google it.” The internet search giant remembers that for decades people have used a desktop or laptop computer to search the internet. Until now, Google’s algorithms ranked desktop searches higher than mobile devices.
Following a Trend: Mobile Device Usage Grows
From 2008 to 2016, there’s been a steady growth of mobile phone usage while desktop has been stagnant. By the end of 2015, recent data showed that 51 percent of people in the U.S. regularly used mobile phones. Google recognized the shift in mobile device usage and is acting upon this trend.
Google’s Solution to a Modern Searcher’s Problem
Today, many websites have desktop and mobile versions, but the latter displays less content. This is simply due to the architecture of these websites of which Google has no control. Google can, however, give a higher ranking to the ones that are mobile-friendly. It’s trying to solve a problem for its users. When someone searches for content on a mobile device and it’s not there, yet the searcher knows that it’s available via a desktop computer, it could lead to a frustrating experience for the user. The worst-case scenario for a business is that the user moves on to find another website that is more mobile-friendly.
Opt for Responsive Design
Responsive design could mean the difference between whether or not your business has a high enough ranking in the search results. Responsive is the best option because it gives your website agility. It allows people to view it the same way on different devices such as a tablet, laptop, desktop, or mobile device, whichever they choose.
If for some reason, you don’t want to go “responsive,” consider asking a professional website designer about using structured data markup so that Google can better understand your website’s data. When finished, the designer may check it for visibility by testing it with Googlebot.
Be Prepared for More Changes
Some worry that too much focus is on mobile and not enough on other search devices. To address this, make sure that your website’s back-end architecture can handle all channels. Keep in mind that Google’s ranking system will change again at some point in time.
Mobile First Represents Opportunity
The switch to mobile first may open up an underutilized opportunity for your business to increase sales. Consider mobile advertising platforms, such as social media, video, local search, and others. As mobile usage continues to grow, so likely is purchasing using that type of device. However, it’s good to monitor and review your campaign analytics to determine which devices are used most in your sales conversions.
The side effect of doing nothing is invisibility. Seek professional assistance now. Your brand is worth it! Don’t let your competitors be the only ones to benefit from higher rankings due to the new mobile first indexing rules. MAXBURST is your technical ally. Just leave the back-end architecture to us and we’ll get your website mobile-ready. Take this time to Request a Quote or call us at 888-MAXWEB (888-962-9932) today!
