The majority of Google searches are performed on mobile devices and the volume increases yearly. Yet, up until now, Google has indexed sites based on a website’s desktop version. This created a discrepancy between ranking and relevance when searching on a mobile device. That focus has recently shifted.
Attempting to make search results more relevant, Google has begun to implement tests that will lead to the indexing of mobile content to determine ranking results. These experiments will create a more accurate website representation in the Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs) across devices and increase the mobile user experience in the process. What does this mean for your website?
If your website is already mobile-friendly, there is no need to change or upgrade. In fact, you should gradually see your rankings increase. However, if your website is not mobile-friendly, your website may not receive the same advantages.
What if I don’t have a mobile presence?
If you don’t have a dedicated mobile site or a responsive site, the search engine bots will continue to crawl and index the desktop version of the site. There will be no penalties due to not having a mobile site. However, there will also be no advantages. As the internet and your industry becomes even more competitive daily, why ignore this opportunity to gain additional market share?
All indications point to this ultimately being what we’ll call a “bonus point” update. In other words, websites that are better adapted to mobile use will be awarded points which will allow their websites to rise in the SERPs and rank higher. Long term, it would be best for your website to be mobile accessible.
Don’t want to be left behind?
We hope we have provided some clarity and direction for your online enterprise. Assisting our clients’ to fulfill their online business objectives is our goal. For a confidential review of your website, we invite you to contact Active Web Group’s Digital Marketing Specialists at (800) 978-3417.
