How Do You Implement Mobile First Technology?

4 steps to bring your client up-to-date for thinking “Mobile First”.

I have adopted a steadfast rule in my work: I never show a client a draft unless their product is completely mobile-friendly. This approach helps my clients recognize the importance of mobile in building their business and online presence.

To effectively teach your clients about mobile-first technology, consider following these four steps:

1. Emphasize the Significance of Mobile-First:

By now, we understand that “mobile-first” refers to enabling users to perform almost any task on their mobile devices, with minimal impact on content, loading time, and functionality. In today’s world, where people spend a significant amount of time on their mobile devices, it is crucial to emphasize the concept of mobile-first design.

Despite its prominence, there are still individuals who prioritize aesthetics over mobile functionality. Take a moment to browse the web on your phone, and you’ll be astonished by the number of non-mobile-friendly sites. Initiate discussions about mobile design right from the first client meeting to establish its importance.

2. Educate Clients on Framework, Design, and Mobile-Optimized Content

As smartphones become more and more powerful, it’s important to keep up with the rising technology and bringing out clients along as technologies change. If you want the user to have the best-possible experience, by teaching your client the process, they will understand the process and importance of mobile first.

Whether it’s design, content or navigation, implementing the mobile first strategy during the review process, my client will begin to understand the importance of how designing their product for mobile technology will help their business.

3. Simplify your look and feel

When designing for mobile, be selective about the content and graphics displayed in the mobile view. Users navigate through sites by swiping and tapping, so it’s crucial to streamline the mobile experience.

Avoid large graphics or menu bars that take up too much screen space, as they can hinder navigation. Teach your clients how to identify areas that can be simplified for mobile and encourage the use of interactive buttons and mobile-friendly image galleries. By involving clients in this process, you save time and effort in explaining and training them later on.

4. TEST, TEST, TEST⠀

Prioritize thorough testing to ensure mobile-friendliness before presenting a project to clients. Whether you’re using a website builder, WordPress templates, or HTML/CSS, implementing the mobile-first strategy saves time, minimizes errors, and impresses clients.

Educate your clients on the testing process and emphasize that changes made to improve mobile performance, such as turning off large hero graphics or simplifying the menu, are done to enhance the user experience.

While these steps may seem basic to some, it is important to evaluate our strategies, client interactions, and consider adopting a mobile-first mindset. Share your own mobile-first techniques and experiences to further enhance the discussion and encourage growth in this area.

Do you have a specific technique for mobile first that you can share?

Robinette Kelly is a dynamic digital marketer and industry leader with over 25th year of experience driving digital success.