dotMobi: 2000% growth in number of mobile-ready websites

dotMobi: 2000% growth in number of mobile-ready websites
No, that's not a typo in the headline. New research from dotMobi does indeed show a humongous rise in the number of mobile-ready websites that consumers can access from their mobile handsets. Read on for the figures and how to make your mobile website user friendly.

by Helen Leggatt

In 2008, there were approximately 150,000 mobile-ready websites. In just two years that number has risen to over 3 million. That growth, some say, is faster than the growth of desktop Internet over a similar period.

The world's top 1,000 websites, as ranked by Alexa, are certainly choosing to offer mobile-friendly alternatives. dobMobi's study found that over 40% have a mobile version.

This percentage decreases the further down the rankings you go, down to just under 30% for the top 10,000 websites and 19% overall among all 500,000 sites ranked.

Thanks to new tools, and the proliferation of HTML5 support, brands are now able to provide a mobile Internet experience that works across all platforms and devices.

An important part of mobile Internet success is having a website that is easy to use and functions efficiently despite the restrictions of a mobile phone's screen size and usability.

Bear the following in mind to ensure mobile Internet site visitors have the best experience possible.

1. Keep it simple

The golden rule of mobile website content is "less is more". Cut out unnecessary images, or give visitors the option of whether to view them.

2. Cut down clicks

Make information easily reachable without the need for excessive clicks or typing.

3. Hone the homepage

Consider what features customers find most important to the mobile shopping experience and highlight them on the homepage.

4. Be finger-friendly

Touch screens are becoming more widespread. Users will be using their fingers to navigate. Make sure content and links are large and clear to make navigating the site hassle-free.

5. Test

What looks great on one device may be a complete turn-off on another, so test mobile websites on as many platforms as possible.