From adaptive design and broken grid layouts to voice search optimisation and progressive web apps, what’s predicted to be hot in the fascinating world of web in 2019. In the final instalment of our ‘Punch Predicts’ blog series, we chat to our web development team for the low down on the top trends…
Adaptive Design
Choosing between Responsive and Adaptive design is a decision that every web designer faces, each with their own set of benefits and challenges, it can be difficult to decide which is best for the job. However, in recent years, adaptive web design has taken centre stage, due to its ability to detect available space and select the most appropriate layout, whether you’re browsing on a tablet, mobile or desktop.
Our Digital Director, Ian says: “Companies have been quick to embrace adaptive design, Amazon and Apple are just two examples of many blue-chip companies that have gone down this road. With mobile rapidly becoming the most popular device to access the internet, designers need to make sure that the same web page works on different sized devices, and adaptive design is the perfect answer.”
Voice Search Optimisation
With the rise of voice search tools such as; Siri, Alexa and Google Home, companies now need to ensure that their website is not only search engine optimised, but voice search optimised! In recent years, it has become a lot more prevalent for companies to implement strategies which enable them to rank highly when people search for things using their voice. Almost everyone has an iPhone or Android in 2019, and research has shown that more and more people are using the power of a virtual voice assistant to answer their queries.
Commenting on this, Neil says; “Tech giants are constantly coming up with innovative approaches to search, ultimately to make it easier and quicker for people to get access to information, something which companies need to stay on top of. Keyword strategies must adapt and become more conversational in nature, mimicking how ‘real’ people speak.”
Progressive Web Apps
Progressive web apps are predicted to be the next BIG thing for mobile web. In simple terms, a progressive web application takes advantage of the latest technologies to integrate the best of web and mobile apps. Instead of forcing users to install an application via a pop-up, progressive apps have a smooth user experience, push notifications, instant loading and offline support.
Justas says: “Fast, reliable and compatible, it’s no wonder that progressive web apps are trending. Mobile users are advocates for things that take less time, by eliminating the unnecessary downloading and installation stages, progressive apps result in improved user retention and performances. I think we’ll see more companies moving towards progressive web applications, after all, what’s not to like.”
Broken Grid Layouts
The idea of breaking the grid in web design is nothing fresh, however, recent years have seen companies pluck up the confidence to break boundaries to create a more aesthetically pleasing and engaging layout. Today, we’re starting to see a lot more websites moving away from traditional grid layouts and experimenting with overlapping, custom sizes and background gradients.
Paul says: “It’s exciting to see a lot more websites playing with broken grid layouts, that look more unique and ‘funky’. I think this year, we’ll start to see a lot more companies taking the plunge with broken grid layouts, utilising them to create brand individuality and market their core values.”
That’s all folks…don’t forget to read the other blogs in our ‘Punch Predicts’ series, which explore social media and creative design trends!