Smartphones now account for a remarkable 58% of global internet traffic, making them the primary way most people access online content. For universities and educational institutions, this shift in user behaviour is critical to consider when designing digital tools like a digital prospectus, which is often the first touchpoint for prospective students.
Even as mobile usage has grown, many organisations still design their digital prospectus with desktop users in mind. Yet, Google’s mobile-first indexing, introduced in 2016, now prioritises the mobile version of content when determining search rankings. A prospectus that isn’t mobile-optimised risks lower visibility and engagement, potentially missing out on attracting top candidates. As student expectations evolve, the time has come for universities to embrace mobile-first design to ensure their digital prospectus makes a strong impression.
Benefits of Mobile-First Design for a Digital Prospectus
Universities that adopt a mobile-first approach to their digital prospectus can gain several advantages, including:
1. Meeting Prospective Students Where They Are
- Many prospective students, especially Gen Z, rely on smartphones as their primary device for researching institutions. A mobile-friendly prospectus ensures they can explore your offerings effortlessly.
2. Better Engagement with Key Content
- Mobile-first designs focus on delivering concise, visually engaging content tailored to smaller screens. Interactive elements like videos, course selectors, and virtual campus tours are more likely to captivate users.
3. Improved Accessibility
- A mobile-first prospectus is inclusive of students from all backgrounds, including those who may only have access to mobile devices or limited internet connectivity.
4. Higher Search Rankings
- Aligning with Google’s mobile-first indexing improves your institution’s search visibility, helping you reach more potential applicants during their research phase.
5. Demonstrating Innovation and Modernity
- A sleek, user-friendly mobile prospectus positions your institution as forward-thinking and in tune with the needs of today’s students.
Key Considerations for a Mobile-First Digital Prospectus
To create a compelling mobile-first digital prospectus, universities should focus on the following elements:
1. Optimised Layouts for Small Screens
- Ensure content fits neatly on various smartphone screen sizes, maintaining clarity and ease of navigation.
2. Prioritised Content
- Highlight the most critical information first—such as course details, application deadlines, and student testimonials—so it’s immediately accessible without excessive scrolling.
3. Touch-Friendly Navigation
- Replace complex menus with simplified, touch-friendly interfaces. Sticky headers and clear call-to-action buttons ensure users can quickly move through the prospectus.
4. Engaging Media
- Use mobile-optimised videos, images, and animations to bring your campus and courses to life while maintaining fast load times.
5. Interactivity
- Include mobile-ready features like interactive course finders, virtual open day tools, and click-to-call buttons for admissions inquiries.
6. Offline Access
- Enable prospective students to download and view the prospectus offline, ensuring they can access it anytime, even without a strong internet connection.
7. Scalability for Future Updates
- Design with flexibility in mind, ensuring the prospectus can be updated regularly to reflect new courses, events, or application processes.
YUDU’s PhoneView: A Mobile-First Solution for Digital Prospectuses
For universities looking to create a truly mobile-first digital prospectus, YUDU’s PhoneView is the perfect solution. Designed specifically for mobile devices, PhoneView ensures your prospectus is responsive, engaging, and functional, meeting the high expectations of modern students.
Key Features of PhoneView:
- Responsive Design: Detects and adapts seamlessly to different smartphone and tablet sizes and orientations, ensuring the best possible user experience.
- Enhanced Navigation: Touch-friendly menus and intuitive layouts make exploring your prospectus effortless.
- Interactive Features: Include media-rich content, virtual tours, and interactive course selectors optimised for mobile users.
- Offline Viewing: Prospective students can access the prospectus anytime, even without an internet connection, making it convenient for on-the-go users.
- Brand Consistency: Maintain your institution’s branding across all devices for a professional and cohesive presentation.
By leveraging PhoneView, universities and educational institutions can deliver a digital prospectus that not only reflects the quality of their offerings but also caters to the digital habits of today’s students. A mobile-first approach ensures your prospectus is as accessible, engaging, and impactful as possible.
It’s time to consider a mobile-first design and ensure your institution’s digital prospectus makes a lasting impression on prospective students. Let YUDU help you take the next step.
Cover Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash
