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 Trust the experts at Ventura Web Design. 

Should My Online Store Use Responsive, Adaptive, or Mobile-First Web Design?

The way people browse the web today is rapidly changing, more and more people are using their phones exclusively as their computers, foregoing the traditional laptop or desktop computer. For these people and many other who browse the web on their mobile device, a traditional web site designed for the desktop will no longer make the cut. In fact, Google recently made an algorithm change in their mobile search results penalizing website that aren’t designed for mobile devices and promoting mobile ready sites. The trend from desktop to mobile computing shows no signs of slowing down, if anything, the trend of moving towards mobile is speeding up.

You can check the mobile readiness of your site by visiting 

. If your site fails the test you may be losing valuable visitors and potential clients from your site. 

 interpret the results of a test like this and determine what can be done to improve your scores.

Now is the time to update your site, make it mobile friendly, and win back those lost visitors. What is a phone ready website design called? There are two different types of mobile friendly (phone ready) design: 

With responsive design the web site is designed to expand and shrink depending on the size of the screen the user has the design itself is fluid. Adaptive design also called progressive enhancement is more like having two completely separate web sites, one that is designed for mobile screens and on for laptops or desktops. There is a debate among designers and developers over which method is better for building your site, and both methods have their positives and negatives. See below for the advantages an disadvantages along with 

With responsive design the layout of your page grows or shrinks based on the resolution of the screen the user has. Images will grow and shrink to fit the space and text and other elements will flow to fit as the space either grows or shrinks.

Responsive design is a powerful tool in the modern web designer‘s arsenal as it allows an optimized viewing experience for users no matter what device they are using to access your content. Responsive design works by using a combination of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to determine the size of a user‘s screen and display the page accordingly. This means that images, text, and other elements will automatically resize based on the user‘s device, allowing your page to look great no matter what device it is being viewed on.

Furthermore, responsive design can be used to create custom layouts for different types of devices. For example, if you have an e–commerce website you can create a layout optimized for tablets and desktops that displays more content than the layout optimized for mobile devices. This way your users will have the best possible experience regardless of what device they are using. Additionally, responsive design can help improve SEO since search engines like Google take into account how mobile–friendly a website is when ranking sites in their search engine results pages (SERPs). By having a responsive website you can ensure that your site will be highly visible in both desktop and mobile SERPs.

Faster development times: You only need to develop one site that will fit multiple devices, this cuts down on development time.

Less maintenance: By their nature responsive sites are less complex than adaptive. If you need to make a change to the site, you only need to make one change. In adaptive you might need to make changes in more than one spot to make sure they design changes carries over to mobile.

Future proof: Okay, nothing is really future proof, but by their nature, the flexibility of responsive sites will fit more screen resolutions. Most adaptive sites are designed to fit a desktop device and a mobile device, many leave out tablets serving a tablet either a mobile version of the site or a desktop version. With responsive web design the site will look good in a tablet such as an iPad.

Responsive redesigns are more expensive than Adaptive because they require additional work. But once complete, Responsive requires less maintenance than an Adaptive site, producing a long term overall savings in web development fees.

When you choose to make your site Responsive, you will need to redesign your entire site and not just add a mobile template. This is usually a benefit, as your mobile and desktop sites will both match and look great, creating a consistent user experience.

Adaptive website design is like having two completely different web sites, one designed to fit on your phone the other designed to fit on your desktop. Using JavaScript and other elements different version of you site are served to the user depending on what type of device they are on.

Generally, it a great way to ensure your website looks good and works properly regardless of what device your viewer is using. Using JavaScript or other elements, the website will detect the size of the screen and deliver a tailored version of it that fits perfectly on that viewing platform. This way, you can ensure that users have a consistent experience across multiple devices, whether it be a small mobile phone or a large desktop monitor. Not only does this make for an enhanced user experience, but it also helps to improve SEO rankings because search engines can more easily index your website‘s content when it is optimized for various devices.

Adaptive design also helps to reduce development time since you don‘t need to create separate websites for different devices, just one that adapts itself automatically to fit any screen size. In addition, by using responsive images and adaptive media queries, you can ensure that all visual elements are correctly rendered on any device regardless of its size.

Since you are basically building a separate site from your desktop site images, logos, and other bandwidth and resource intensive processes can be left out of the mobile version of your site or better optimized for mobile, leaving you with a faster and leaner site. You only need to use the assets you think are most important to your user.

No need to redesign your current desktop site. If you are happy with your current desktop site, you can leave it as is and 

You can provide a link to the desktop version of the site to let the user choose what version of the site they will see.

The design can be specifically tailored to mobile devices. With responsive design, one design needs to work with all devices, with adaptive design you can design specifically for mobile phones.

Longer development times: You have to develop for both the desktop and mobile. In some cases, depending on the platform, they may have completely separate templates for the desktop and mobile, so in essence you are developing two different sites.

More maintenance: If you want to update the desktop site you may also need to make changes to mobile site as well. Adaptive sites are generally more complex than responsive sites.

Many adaptive designs are desktop or mobile only, leaving out the users on tablets, who usually will either see the mobile site or the desktop version.

Mobile first web design is a concept that website designers will think about and design for users on iPhones and other smart phones as their primary user base. This approach is unique because the first devices used to access the Internet were desktop and laptop computers. As smart phone usage became ubiquitous, starting as far back as the year 2014, 

 of this trend and began rethinking how they designed websites.

Mobile–first design is a unique concept that takes into account the increasing prevalence of smart phones for accessing the Internet. This approach looks at designing a website with mobile users in mind first and foremost, ensuring an enjoyable experience for them on any device. This includes creating an easy–to–navigate layout with larger buttons and links, making sure the content is readable on a small screen, and optimizing loading times. In some cases, web designers may even opt to focus exclusively on mobile users instead of creating one website for all devices.

Beyond providing better user experiences, mobile–first design can also help improve search engine rankings by optimizing content for both desktop and mobile devices. As such, it has become increasingly popular among website designers looking to reach more people and increase their online visibility. With this approach, websites are designed specifically for mobile users, making them more accessible and providing a better overall experience for them.

The design looks cleaner and is much easier to read.

Sites are put together in a more linear, top to bottom format. This makes it easier for your web design and marketing team to tell the story in a logical and comprehendible way.

Websites built for mobile first can be designed with fewer images and other rich media that sometimes slow down the website experience.

Your website team may ignore the desktop design altogether, or not put as much effort into it as they should when building out this side of your website.

The linear layout of the site makes it more difficult for those users who prefer to skim a website, rather than read it thoroughly.

Should I use mobile first design on my new website?

Mobile first means that the mobile experience of your website takes priority when strategizing. We design the mobile version of your website first, instead of starting with the desktop version. This assumption is based on the fact that more and more users are accessing websites from their mobile or smart device, rather than a laptop or desktop computer. It‘s important to consider who your audience is and how they may be discovering you in order to tailor the best experience for them. That‘s why this mobile–first approach is essential. Not only does it ensure your website is optimized for mobile users, but it also provides an opportunity to exceed their expectations.

By taking the time to create a great mobile experience, you can ensure your website stands out and provides a great user experience no matter how they‘re accessing it. In this model, we assume that the majority of your users will visit your website from a mobile or smart device, instead of a laptop or desktop computer. With the pervasiveness of smart phones, it’s more important than ever to evaluate who your audience is and how they’ll most likely be finding you.

Ventura Web Design CEO, Kevin Richards, says that mobile first web design is a piece of the larger marketing puzzle.

“As you’re putting together your new website, it is important to spend time on your strategy. Who will use your site? Why will they choose you over others? If we answer these questions during the strategy phase of your project, we can ensure a much higher likelihood of success.”

If you believe, or the data shows, that your customers will primarily access your website from a 

, then you should absolutely invest in a mobile first web design and strategy session with your web design company. While you’re here, why not 

 and see if we’re the right fit to help with your web project.

If you‘re looking for a beautiful, responsive website that will engage and convert your customers, you need look no further. Our team of experienced web designers are dedicated to creating stunning websites that are optimized to maximize conversions. With our professional designs and attention to detail, we can help you take the next step in your business.

Mobile Web Design: Responsive vs Adaptive

If you've ever shopped online, chances are that you've seen and considered reviews for merchants you shop with and products that you've browsed. Customers prefer real testimonials to marketing fluff, so it's no surprise that reviews are the fastest growing social marketing tool for online stores. According to a 2012 study, almost 33% of shoppers trust reviews over a particular brand or its marketing. If you're considering adding reviews to your website or online store, there are a few things you should know.

Online reviews are a becoming a big factor in determining your placement in search and shopping results. Total number of reviews, review quality and length, and trust of your review platform all play a big role. A 2013 study reported that almost 85% of users considered reviews before visiting a new restaurant, hiring a contractor, or making a major purchase, so it's no wonder that search engines take reviews into account more than in the past.

In general, there are 3 different types of reviews.

 are a measure of trust in your business in general. When someone fills out a merchant review, they're reviewing your customer service, shipping time, and overall quality of shopping experience. Merchant reviews are powerful incentives to trust your brand.

 rate the quality of individual products. Product reviews help build trust in the particular brand of a product, and allow customers to read personal stories from other buyers who've used that product, as well as share those reviews on social media. In fact, 42% of all Amazon customers have left product reviews, and products with postiive review have sold 200% more than those with no ratings. The best and most trusted review programs only allow reviews from someone who has actually bought that product.

 are reviews you collect either in your physical business location or on the go (using a tablet or phone, for instance). You can then syndicate that review to many online lists and social media platforms to get you the most exposure available when someone searches your business.

While you can always install a simple review plugin or use whatever comes built-in with your e-commerce platform of choice, it's far better to have reviews collected by a Google and/or Microsoft approved third-party review company. Those reviews are guaranteed to be from actual customers, which means they can't be faked. Depending on who is collecting your reviews, can be used to boost your visibility and attractiveness in Google Adwords, Google Shopping, Yahoo and Bing ad networks.

We've found Shopper Approved to be the best review company overall. Their prices are highly competitive and their customer service is top notch. Their review management tools are easy to use, and they're one of the most trusted names in the business. Shopper Approved collected 70% more review and are historically more visible on search engines than their competitors. Most importantly, their ratings are fed to Google so shoppers will see your review stars when browsing Google shopping.

Want to get started with reviews for your website or online store today? Ventura can set you up with a 30-day free trial of Shopper Approved. For more information, 

The Importance of Online Reviews

In the ever-evolving marketplace, understanding the diverse array of buyer personas is crucial for tailoring your marketing strategies to meet the specific needs and preferences of your target audience. From bargain hunters to luxury consumers, each persona presents unique challenges and opportunities for businesses. Let’s dive into the common buyer personas and how you can adapt your approach to resonate with each.

Driven by emotions and the desire for instant gratification, the Impulse Shopper makes spontaneous purchases based on what catches their eye. Use eye-catching designs and persuasive copy to grab their attention. Limited-time offers can also create a sense of urgency that triggers their impulse to buy.

The Researcher takes a methodical approach to shopping, spending time comparing products, reading reviews, and seeking out the best options. Provide detailed product information, customer reviews, and comparative features to help them make informed decisions.

This persona values trust and consistency. The Loyal Customers are repeat customers who appreciate personalized experiences and loyalty rewards. Focus on building a relationship through loyalty programs, personalized marketing, and maintaining consistent quality in your products or services.

Comfortable with the latest technology, The Tech-Savvy Shopper look for a seamless online shopping experience and innovative features. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and incorporates the latest tech to enhance the shopping experience.

Concerned with environmental and social issues, the Ethical Shoppers prefer to support brands that align with their values. Highlight your brand’s commitment to sustainability, ethical manufacturing, and corporate responsibility to attract this conscientious consumer.

The Luxury Consumer seeks exclusivity, quality, and a superior customer experience, willing to pay a premium for these aspects. Focus on delivering high-quality products, exclusive offers, and exceptional service to meet their high standards.

Focused on necessities, the Practical Shopper looks for functionality, durability, and practicality. Emphasize the reliability, longevity, and utility of your products to appeal to their practical nature.

The Gift Giver is always on the lookout for the perfect gift, they appreciate recommendations, attractive packaging, and flexible return policies. Offer gift guides, provide various packaging options, and ensure a hassle-free return process to make their gift-giving as smooth as possible.

By understanding and catering to the unique preferences and behaviors of these buyer personas, businesses can enhance their marketing strategies, website design, and product presentation. Tailoring your approach to each persona not only improves customer satisfaction but also drives sales and fosters loyalty among your target audience.

Common Buyer Personas in E-Commerce

Are you looking for the best eCommerce platform for your business or website? With so many options available, it’s difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we will discuss what to look for in an eCommerce platform, popular eCommerce platforms, the pros and cons of each platform, and how to choose the right one for your business. Additionally, this article will explore why selecting a suitable eCommerce platform is essential to the success of your business.

What to Look for in an eCommerce Platform

When selecting an eCommerce platform, there are several factors that must be taken into consideration.

While all e-commerce platforms offer the same foundational features such as selling products and being able to have your own online store, if we take a more in-depth look we will find that there are many important differences and factors to consider.

Does it offer a comprehensive set of features that meet your needs?

Does it include things like customer accounts, shopping carts and payment processing?

Customer Support Options, Ease-of-Use, and Scalability

Different platforms offer varying levels of customer service and technical support in order to make sure that users have everything they need when running their store.

What customer support options are available on the ecommerce platform?

How user–friendly is the ecommerce platform?

How easily can the ecommerce platform scale with my business growth?

Does the ecommerce platform offer any additional features that could be beneficial for my business?

It’s important to ensure that the payment processor and shipping provider you choose are reliable so that customers can trust their data is secure when making orders online.

Do they have integrations with existing or preferred payment processors?

Are there built-in shipping solutions or do you need a separate provider?

Different e-commerce platforms have different pricing structures depending on features offered. Make sure you understand what you’re getting for your money before making a decision, as this can have a major impact on your bottom line over the long-haul.

What features are included in each e–commerce platform‘s pricing structure?

How can I ensure I‘m getting the best value for my money when choosing an e–commerce platform?

What long–term impacts should I consider when selecting an e–commerce platform?

There are two main types of eCommerce platforms: hosted solutions and self-hosted solutions. The decision between a hosted or self-hosted solution should depend on your needs and budget; hosted solutions tend to be more costly but take care of all technical aspects while self-hosted options can be cheaper but require more technical expertise from those managing the store.

 provide a fully managed service with everything taken care of by the provider while self-hosted solutions require more technical knowledge as they are built on open source software such as Magento or WooCommerce.

 solutions also require users to manage their own hosting services which can be time consuming if not done correctly.

There are many popular eCommerce platforms available today. Some of the most popular include 

. Each of these platforms offers different features and functionality at varying price points which makes it easy to find one that meets both your short term needs as well as long term growth aspirations.

 is a great choice for those who want a straightforward solution with plenty of features at an affordable price point. It is easy to use with built-in payment processing, analytics tools and marketing tools included in their plans making it ideal for businesses just starting out who don’t yet need advanced features like loyalty programs or custom checkout flows, yet still want access to powerful tools like abandoned cart recovery or email campaigns.

 is a popular e-commerce platform that allows users to customize their stores with advanced features such as abandoned cart recovery and loyalty programs included in their plans making them suitable for larger businesses who may have more complex requirements.

 is often used by larger businesses due to its robust capabilities but can be more complex than other options due to its open source codebase which means additional development work may be required if customizations are desired.

 is great if you want to integrate with 

 but may require more development work than other solutions so make sure developers are readily available before committing.

 offer easy-to-use solutions but may not offer all the features or flexibility needed for larger stores so make sure these limitations are taken into account when selecting them.

Pros and Cons of the Most Popular E-Commerce Platforms

When deciding on an eCommerce platform, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully in order to ensure that your business has access to all the necessary features while still keeping costs low enough so that they don’t become prohibitively expensive over time.

 is one of the most popular e-commerce solutions, known for its intuitive interface and reliable support.

Limited scalability for larger businesses

 is a powerful platform with scalability and a wide range of features.

Expensive pricing plans compared to competitors

Can be confusing due to all customizable options

 is an open-source platform known for its flexibility and extensive features.

Flexible payment options with no transaction fees

 is an open-source solution built on WordPress, offering ease of use and integration with plugins.

Free open-source platform with no transaction fees

Lack of comprehensive customer service options

Difficult interface for non-technical users

Expensive pricing for additional features

 is an all-in-one website builder with an online store platform.

Intuitive design tools and professional templates

Best Ecommerce Platform in 2024

We’ve seen social media change the way we go about marketing and advertising our businesses to the world. Social media is an incredible avenue to maintain top of mind awareness with your shoppers.

Influencer Marketing has taken the internet by storm. While it was once a trend, it’s more common than ever before. Influencers are typically experts on the platforms you see them on, they already have an engaged audience, they know what kind of content their audience is interested in, and they know that they can influence their audience with the information they put out.

Many micro-influencers have a relationship with their audience that mimics the “regular guy/gal” brand archetype, making them more relatable and leading their audience to trust their opinions and recommendations. This is a great way for a business to leverage brand awareness and grow their audience even more.

Short-form Video Content will Continue to Rise

Many of us heard of TikTok at the start of the global pandemic and vowed to ourselves that we would never download it. As we’re over a year into the global pandemic, many of us can’t stand by that statement anymore. We’ve been consumed by the hilarious, relatable, and educational videos that are widely spread across the internet.

Short-form video content takes less time and space to create and it also falls in line with the current fast paced attention spans of online audiences. Long-form videos can offer much depth about a product, brand, or service to your audience but ask yourself….who has time to watch one five-minute video when they could watch 15 short videos in the same time and take in MUCH more?

Mobile Optimization will be EVEN MORE Critical

Consumers spend more and more time on mobile devices every day. As buying power continues to grow amongst Millennials and Gen Z audiences, mobile friendly websites will generate more revenue than slower, non-optimized online stores.

Mobile optimization not only encompasses your website, but also things like email marketing, for example. Consider ways that you can deliver a mobile email experience to subscribers.

Social Responsibility will be Prioritized

We are all aware of the global pandemic that started in 2020. This along with other world events, caused social responsibility, ethics, and transparency to matter much to consumers more now than ever before. Consumers care about brands that care about them, their employees, and shared causes.

You may see that some businesses have already begun to shift their social media marketing strategies to focus more on inclusive initiatives, promotions and offerings all while highlighting causes or missions they support.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) refers to how discoverable your website and content is. SEO is not new in the slightest, but you can expect to see SEO be ingrained within much, if not all of your marketing tactics and strategies.

We’ve had the entire year of 2021 to work through the kinks of what business will look like in 2022. As we saw many virtual events in 2020 and 2021, 2022 will be more of a hybrid approach. Expect to see businesses using more physical opportunities for their audience in 2022. Although there may be less virtual events, that DOES NOT mean that virtual events are null and void.

Resources for Success

Learn eCommerce

Mobile Web Design: Responsive vs Adaptive

The Importance of Online Reviews

Common Buyer Personas in E-Commerce

Best Ecommerce Platform in 2024

Social Media Marketing & eCommerce in 2022: What to Expect

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