Most of our customers use a web statistics reporting tool like Google Analytics.  I've been paying closer attention lately to the mobile device reports to ensure that clients experiencing rapid mobile-visitor growth will have ample opportunity to test their web site for usability on these devices.  The majority of web sites I monitor are reporting between 2 and 4 percent of all visits originating from a mobile/smart device and most agree this will continue to grow.

iPad Surfers Make Great Guests

On the most heavily trafficked site I monitor, a unique trend is emerging among iPad users.  They are spending about 35% more time browsing, they view more pages per visit, and they are more likely to be loyal visitors. This is a strong contrast from the characteristics of iPhone site visitors which spend about 50% less time on site and view significantly less pages on a typical visit.

Apple's iPad is arguably the most convenient, easy to use, appropriately sized, and portable mobile browsing device available.  We can expect a significant number of laptop users switching to the iPad for their casual web surfing needs.  Personally, I'm replacing my existing Macbook with an iMac desktop and iPad for mobile use.  

Avoid the Most Common Mobile Usability Mistake

Modern mobile browsers do a fairly good job of rendering web pages.  The most common problem businesses uncover when they complete mobile usability tests is the lack of support for Flash.  While an exciting flash animation or menu can help your site stand out, it also can render your web site completely unusable.  At the very least, be sure that your logo and navigation are available in non-Flash versions.  Addicted to Flash?  Don't worry, you don't have to remove it -- you just need to detect whether a client supports Flash and automatically deliver the appropriate content.  One thing you can be sure of, following Steve Job's public statement justifying Apple's refusal to integrate Flash, support for Flash on mobile device isn't going to be available anytime soon.

Get Started Now

• You don't need to be a computer programmer to perform mobile usability testing.  Just log on from your iPhone, or a friends, and try to access each area and function on your web site.  If you've got access to an iPad, use it get a feel for the experience your visitors will have. It's imperative you also test from a BlackBerry, as it holds the #2 position for mobile browser visits.
• If you'd rather outsource the usability testing, MetroMediaWorks offers a $99 mobile usability testing service.  Contact us for details.  The report will identify any potential issues and provide suggested best practices for resolving issues.