With the number of mobile devices that offer internet access, such as PDA’s and mobile phones, increasing it’s important to make sure your site is able to be viewed on these smaller resolutions. The limitations of these devices, such as limited network connectivity, processing power and space constraints also means that websites often have to be customized to display well. With that in mind, here are some general rules to follow when designing sites for this medium:
- Limit Graphic Content
With the small screen size and download speed, graphics usually take too long to display and occupy vital space. To ensure the necessary content displays, the amount of graphics used should be limited in an effort to reduce scrolling and processing time. - Use Link Navigation
Where possible, numbered vertical lists of hyperlinks should be used to allow users to select the navigation they need using their keyboard or thumb-pad. Lists also tend to reduce the amount of text by the concise manner in which they’re written, which is great for reducing horizontal scrolling. - Limit Text Size & Wrap Text
Once again due to space restrictions large text sizes should be avoided. To reduce horizontal scrolling, the text should also automatically wrap when it reaches the end of the screen. - Limit forms or data entry fields
Where possible, data entry should be avoided as it is very difficult to type into mobile devices with the keyboard or thumb-pads available. If this can not be avoided the amount of data entry should be reduced to the bare minimum to improve the usability of the site. - Error Messages
Error Messages should be differentiated and apparent as they should keep the user informed of what is occurring on the site. They should also display in an area that does not require scrolling for the message to be displayed.