As we continue to evolve as one of Canada’s leading public relations agencies, it is important to ensure we keep up-to-date with the newest online and technology trends. With the launch of communication tools such as Periscope (designed primarily to experience something through someone else’s smartphone), it is clear that internet users are turning to their mobile devices more than ever. Living in the “age of instant”, internet users rely heavily on their smartphones to access information instantaneously and expect that information to be displayed in a user-friendly way.
In early 2015, Google announced that they would be launching a mobile-friendly algorithm created to reward websites that cater to smartphone and tablet users. Coined by industry experts as “Mobilegeddon”, those sites that do not meet Google’s mobile standards will miss out on significant search engine rewards. What does that reward exactly entail? Websites that are designed to optimize the user experience for those searching on their mobile device will receive a ranking boost in Google’s mobile search results. How does Google determine if you are tablet and mobile friendly? As stated by Google, higher mobile search rankings will be granted to websites that “allow users to more easily find high-quality and relevant results where text is readable without tapping or zooming, tap targets are spaced appropriately, and the page avoids unplayable content or horizontal scrolling.”
In the coming week, Brookline will be launching a refreshed website to ensure we are compatible with smartphone and tablet users. If you want to learn if your website is mobile friendly, check out Google’s Mobile Friendly Test website: https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/mobile-friendly/. Stay tuned for more updates!
-Alisha Samnani is an Account Supervisor at Brookline Public Relations. With a pulse on what’s hot and trending, Alisha offers a rare blend of big picture thinking and strategic execution. Her specific expertise lies in pinpointing public engagement opportunities and developing tailored communication strategies for her clients.