The Importance Of Responsive Ecommerce Websites
Over the past few weeks, the design and development team at Parallax have been lucky enough to work with a new ecommerce client. We’re currently helping them to create a beautiful new responsive website (all will be unveiled in due course!), which inspired us to find some of our favourites.
Firstly, why do you need a responsive ecommerce website design?
Mobile devices have completely changed the approach towards design and user experience. Before the arrival of smartphones and tablets, designers only had to ensure that users visiting from a desktop computer had a great experience. Now, with so many users now accessing the internet from mobile devices, the rules have completely changed. Important actions such as clicking on a mouse or a trackpad in comparison to touch (you can’t hover on a touch device!), display size (think of all the different smartphones and tablets on the market), and pixel resolution (retina vs non retina, OLED etc) all need to be considered.
Users need to be able to enjoy your website from whatever device they’re browsing, whether that’s a smartphone, tablet, desktop or even a smart-TV. Consumers should find what they’re looking for easily, something that’s vital for ecommerce websites. If they can’t effectively use your website on a mobile device, the probability is that they’ll drop off, resulting in lost sales. Responsive design ensures that users get a flawless and consistent experience, making them more likely to convert.
Here are a few of the responsive ecommerce websites that we think are doing the job well:
EE
This website has quite a divided opinion but we think it does the job. Responsive throughout including the online store, it knocks the socks of their competitors. O2 have tried to jump on the responsive bandwagon, however it all falls down once a user attempts to visit the shop. EE have nailed it.
Nixon
Not only do they make awesome watches, but they’ve also created a beautiful responsive website. Originally launched a couple of years ago, they’ve stuck to the winning formula and tailored their content around it. The shopping cart and purchase process is just perfect whatever the size of your display.
Currys
Currys have really embraced how important responsive design is. As a retailer that sells technology and tablets, they needed to show that they were staying ahead of the curve. The shopping experience is great with clear CTAs across the website.
Burton Snowboards
This website is pretty special. Burton have focussed heavily on creating rich and engaging content with powerful imagery, video and articles visible throughout, showcasing their products and how diverse the brand has become. The ecommerce functionality of the website is easy and enjoyable to use.
As a digital agency, we love creating fantastic experiences for users. Responsive design needs to be considered for anybody investing in a new website whether that’s a standard brochure site, or a full ecommerce solution. What are your favourite responsive websites? Let us know, we’d love to hear about them.