We have tried to answer some of the many questions you may have. Most listed below refer to the mobile optimized versions that are designed only for mobile phones vs the full responsive theme mobile-friendly websites that work on all devices. Still got questions? Use the Contact Us form to submit your question.
I think my website displays fine in mobile browsers, even if it is a little small. Why do I need a special version?
You might be able to find information because you know where to look! Often times the text is too tiny for visitors to read, leaving the visitor to resort to finger gestures (pinch and zoom) in order to find information. Mobile optimized websites are built for smaller screens and are easy to read and navigate on smartphones.
Some newly developed websites implement a responsive design in an attempt to leverage their existing website. I some cases this works well, in other cases it’s just too much information to squeeze on a small screen. A mini version of your conventional website could still be turning away customers and prospects without you even knowing it!
Will my mobile website or mobile app replace my desktop website?
In most cases, no, it compliments your existing website. We install “switcher code” so when someone on a mobile device lands on your standard website they are automatically redirected to your mobile website.
Let’s discuss the strategy for your conventional and mobile website. What actions to you want your visitor to perform in a very short time without them having to sift through an overload of information on a small screen.
I have Flash images in my website, how will this display on mobile?
Unfortunately, not very well or not at all! Most iOS mobile devices (Apple) and Android devices will not display flash at all. It will leave a big gaping hole in your display. We do not recommend using Flash on websites, but we can also help you convert flash to web friendly jQuery images or replace with a mobile optimized website.
Is this the difference between a Mobile App and a Mobile Website?
Many people are confused and think they need a Mobile App when what they really need is a mobile optimized website—or a mobile website that leads people to download a mobile app. To get a mobile app, a visitor needs to about it and download it to use it.
Typically Google does not display the results of mobile apps, but they do display the results for websites and mobile websites. With our process, visitors are automatically detected as a mobile device, then redirected to an mobile optimized website. One of your buttons on the mobile optimized website could be a link to the iTunes or Play Store where your visitor could download your App, if both are needed.
How soon can my mobile website or mobile app be up and running?
In many cases, your prospects can access you on the mobile web in as little as 5 or 10 business days! If you need it quick, we can get you going in a day and then work to enhance the design and build out additional functionality.
Once the code is installed on my standard website, how does it work?
Smartphone visitors to your conventional website will automatically be detected and redirected to your mobile optimized website. iPad visitors will be detected and redirected to either your conventional website or mobile website depending on which display is more desirable. PC visitors to your website will be detected and your conventional website will be displayed.
I already have a domain name. Will I need to purchase a separate one to display my mobile website?
You could purchase one if you wanted, but there is usually no need to do so. Our service automatically places a small piece of code on your main website that detects and automatically redirects smartphone users. There are a number of options for displaying your mobile optimized website on a PC. Most people choose one of the following:
- m.yourdomainname.com
- yourdomainname.mobi
- yourdomainname.com/mobile
- mobile.yourdomainname.com
We can discuss all the options and select the one that makes the most sense for your business.
What about website hosting?
A hosting account provides your website with space to “live” on the Internet. If the style of mobile website we select requires separate hosting, we’ll set it up in a professional data center and handle all the technical aspects to ensure a smooth process. If you are already have a hosting service we may be able to combine.
If you host both a standard website and mobile website are hosted with us, or you are signed up for our monthly maintenance service, your mobile website hosting is free even if it needs to be on another server!
Mobile apps do require a separate hosting fee. Call for details.
How do I know if people are actually visiting my site?
Hosting accounts come with basic statistics or we can install Google Analytics. We’ll be able to tell you how many people are visiting your site. Google Analytics will allow you to determine which keywords were used to find your website. We only collect IP information which identifies the Internet Services Provider, not an individual.
Can we start building my mobile site even if I don’t have an existing website?
Yes. These mobile optimized websites can eve be used as your main site or temporarily as your website is under development.
Will my mobile optimized website look like my conventional website?
BASIC: We will include your logo and color scheme, but the icon color options are limited with this package. Your homepage will display colorful stock icons images and minimal text.
CUSTOM: YES, we have full control over the look of your mobile optimized website. Your homepage will display custom buttons or icons in exact matching colors. We can even make custom symbols for your buttons.
What if I want to make changes?
Hosting and maintenance fees cover the cost or reasonable updates. Contact us to inquire about self maintenance.
Can I sell products from my mobile website?
Mobile Commerce is still an emerging technology. We CAN include a simple catalog of up to 3 products and a PayPal Buy button at no additional fee. Call us for other payment forms and multiple products.
Mobile apps can process credit cards through Paypal or authorize.net.