Home | Articles | Are your online customers getting the best digital experience?

Are your online customers getting the best digital experience?

The last year forced many industries to look at how they operate - to survive they've had to shake things up a bit!

Recent developments in technology and software have played a massive part in helping businesses, like yours, continue as 'normal' as possible.

 

In the world of staying safe at home; even the smallest tasks are now completed online, resulting in customers who usually avoid online transactions entering the digital realm. So, now could be the perfect time to enhance user experience and invest in your website or app.

 

Here are 5 top ways to set yourself apart from your competitors, and make sure your customers are getting the very best digital experience.

 

eCommerce and Click & collect 

 

The current global crisis has seen business owners having to think outside the box. Moving your business online could be the answer. If you've not already done so, introducing an online store or a click and collect service will encourage new customers, and already loyal customers, to shop with you during these uncertain times.

 

Formulate recently worked alongside Cranleigh Garden Machinery to streamline their click & collect service. It has allowed them to keep their doors open and continue their exceptional customer services levels throughout lockdown.  

example of click & collect eCommerce store

 

Design based on preference

 

The future will bring even more of a focus on meeting the needs, wants and tastes of those using your website or application. Allowing users to tailor their experience will make your platform more inclusive and may reduce bounce rate.

 

This includes any options the user has that will make the website work better for them. It could be the ability to switch between light Vs dark mode, increase cursor and text size or to listen to large pieces of text as audio.

 

These preferences could add an element of fun, but they also provide a practical purpose by removing barriers for people with specific accessibility needs.

 

Storytelling (AKA Scrolly-telling for those in the 'know')

 

Add a new dimension and a uniqueness to your website or application with the use of scrolly-telling.

Scrolling a web page is a form of direct interaction with your brand. Use this as an opportunity to capture your users' attention, convey your message and illustrate a product.

 

As the user scrolls the page, tell your story and bring your website to life with imagery, sound and movement. It is the perfect way to take that dreary infographic and inject some life and vibrancy.

 

Augmented reality 

 

Visits to showrooms, stores or even museums could be a thing of the past with the latest immersive experiences using Augmented Reality (AR). This is a winning solution when customers aren't able to interact with you face to face. 

 

Unlike virtual reality, where everything a user sees is computer-generated, AR keeps the 'real-world' and adds computer-generated elements that aren't really there.

 

Some major brands are already using AR. A great example of AR working its magic is the IKEA app, which allows users to select a product from the Ikea catalogue and place it in various places, to scale, around their home. Or take a look at L'Oréal who has introduced an app that lets you virtually try-on new make-up, or hair colour looks using your phone or laptop camera. The tool even goes as far as to tell you whether the colour is recommended for your skin tone; meaning you can now avoid a fashion faux pas!

 

AR technologies could help you sell your products and services and provide customers with the information they need to commit to a purchase. 

 

Multimedia experiences

 

With the advancements in screen resolution and faster internet speeds, we can be more creative with multimedia web experiences. Bringing together visuals, text, video, and audio makes for a rich user experience and meets accessibility needs.

 

There's a growing trend in 3D imagery. High-quality 3D visuals can be incorporated throughout a web design, adding depth and another level of interest.

 

3D images are also helpful for those less comfortable with online shopping. Product simulations and enhanced visualisation techniques have been popular within the e-commerce world. For example, a high-resolution 3D simulation of an item of clothing will allow the buyer to see it from all angles with detailed intricacies, such as fabric texture.


These are just a few examples of how a thoughtfully designed web app could support your business; however, the list is endless. In the future, a digital experience that is more inclusive, accessible and tailored should be the core of all web and software development.

If you think that your website or app could benefit from a bit of a digital 'shake-up', don't hesitate to get in touch to find out how our team can help you to formulate your future.

Share article

Let's work together

For further information please complete the form and we will get
straight back to you. Alternatively please call:

T: +44 (0) 1483 608 200