From its beginning, the web has consistently evolved. The early days of Mosaic and Netscape Navigator helped popularize the internet and, since then, each and every year has brought new concepts, ideas and trends — some good and some bad.
Here are five web development trends that should have the largest overall impact on the industry in 2018:
1. Improved Online Support
Being connected to users is more important than ever. The evolution of Chatbots has led to things like answering common questions, directing people to information and pages or even how to complete a transaction. As consumers become more comfortable with the idea of a chatbot along with how to interact with them, the expectations for every site having them will increase.
2. Progressive Web Apps
A recent study about mobile usage found that mobile apps account for 89% of total mobile media time. It makes sense then that utilizing a similar format to mobile apps would be well-received by target audiences. There are numerous advantages to this technology such as the ability to work offline, near-instant loading (as much of the information is stored in the cache), reliability and the ability to receive push notifications.
3. Single-Page Websites
The single-page website trend found its footing this year and should continue to become more common. This design is one long webpage. Navigation is based on scrolling or using links that jump up or down the page to that particular section. The biggest advantage of this type of website is simplicity.
4. Phasing Out Flash
Adobe announced this year that the Flash Player will no longer be updated or distributed after 2020. Additionally, it is incompatible with most types of mobile devices. Rather than losing out on web traffic, especially on your mobile site, you should replace any Flash with HTML5, which is quickly becoming the most common, universal format on the web.
5. Photo Content
Primarily a good photo can help spur conversions. This concept is not a new one as during the heyday of print magazines, great product photos were in high demand to help create conversions simply based on the story an image told. Unique pictures and photos that show individuality while conveying information will be an important key to online success.
These trends can be used to both entice and engage new and existing users when applied optimally. That is why it is important to look to the future now for ideas and inspiration.