Creating unique, user-friendly mobile websites that represent your brand's personality can be challenging, especially when it feels like all mobile designs look alike. This leads to most people neglecting their mobile sites altogether. However, according to Google, over 50% of all web traffic now comes from a mobile device meaning that you could be throwing away over half of your potential client base. With the right methods, you can break the mould and craft a mobile site that feels both unique and intuitive. This guide will show you how to elevate your mobile designs, helping your site stand out with a polished look.

1. Optimise for the Viewport

Mobile users expect smooth navigation within a single viewport - the viewport is everything that is in view on the user’s screen at a time. Overcrowded or oversized elements can detract from the user experience, so strike a balance with these tips:

Thoughtful Image Sizing: Scale images appropriately to prevent them from overcrowding the screen while maintaining clarity and visual appeal.

Readable Font Sizes: Using optimum font sizing is important in keeping your text legible and balanced, the common font sizes you should be using are either 16px or 18px for the body text and either 24px or 28px for the heading text. Using good line spacing and tracking is also key, usually the tracking (letter spacing) is okay by default but slightly increasing the line spacing may help with larger paragraphs of text.

Whitespace: Use whitespace effectively to improve layout aesthetics and make the content easier to digest, whitespace helps break up a page into smaller sections which is useful because large blocks of content are usually skipped over by a user.

Adaptive Layouts: Ensure all the elements in a section fit comfortably within the viewport, avoiding the need for excessive scrolling. It is good website etiquette for a user to not have to scroll too much for the same section of content, this can become a hassle and lower the user experience.

2. Effective Use of Dropdowns

Dropdowns can streamline navigation and lower visual clutter but must be used sparingly to avoid frustrating the user. Here is how to integrate them effectively:

Limit Dropdowns: Stick to three to five dropdowns per section to maintain clarity and focus. It is also best to only include a maximum of 2 dropdown sections per page.

Intuitive Icons: Including visual indicators to signal the functionality of the dropdown like adding recognisable icons, such as arrows or a plus / minus, to make dropdowns feel inviting.

3. Simplify Graphics for Mobile Devices

Mobile devices demand simpler, more focused visuals. Whether you’re using images or videos, ensure they’re optimised for smaller screens:

Simplify Images: Avoid overly detailed images that lose impact on small screens. Instead, zoom in on the focal point to ensure clarity.

Mobile-Specific Assets: Use visuals tailored for mobile, rather than scaling down desktop images, to maintain sharpness and relevance.

Engaging Videos: Incorporate short videos on auto play that act as dynamic visuals to capture attention.

4. Differentiate Your Sections

Clear, distinct sections help users navigate your mobile site effortlessly. Many designs fall into the trap of repetitive layouts, causing sections to blend. Avoid this by employing these strategies:

Background Colour Variations: Add depth by using different background colours for each alternating section. For example, a simple light grey like #f7f7f7 along with a white page colour can significantly enhance visual clarity.

Strategic Spacing: Generous spacing creates breathing room, enhances readability, and makes each section stand out.

Visual Breaks: If you are using only one background colour, using subtle breaks such as dividing lines or images can help separate your content.

5. Make Sliders Intuitive

Sliders are a versatile way to showcase content, but their usability depends on clear navigation cues. Enhance their effectiveness with these strategies:

Visual Cues: Add dots, arrows, or labels (e.g., “Next” or “Previous”) to guide users through the slides.

Partial Previews: Show a hint of the next slide to subtly encourage the user to keep swiping.

Dynamic Indicators: Use a progress bar to highlight the active slide and how many more there are to come.

Interactive Buttons: Ensure navigation elements are prominent and easy to interact with, particularly on smaller screens. By making sliders easy to navigate and engaging, users will interact with your content more confidently and effectively.

Conclusion

Designing a standout mobile website doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel. By focusing on clear sections, optimising for the viewport, using dropdowns and sliders thoughtfully, and simplifying visuals, you can craft a mobile experience that feels innovative and polished.

Start implementing these strategies today to transform your mobile designs into a dynamic, user-friendly experience that leaves a lasting impression.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the importance of background variations in mobile design?

Using different backgrounds helps create a visual hierarchy, guiding users through your content effortlessly.

Why should sliders include navigation cues?

Clear navigation cues, like arrows or dots, make sliders more intuitive, ensuring users can easily explore your content.

How can I ensure my visuals are mobile-friendly?

Tailor images and videos specifically for mobile screens, focusing on simplicity and clarity to enhance user engagement.