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How much of your website do visitors really see?

March 4th, 2011

Recently I came across an interesting tool on Google Labs that show’s how most people using the world’s top search engine view content.

Using the tool, you can input any URL and get an insider’s look at how visitors see the site:

Website Sizes Google Screenshot

Click on the image to visit Google Labs...

Most people using Google to search don’t have a full sized browser window open. When a visitor does click on your website link, they will only see a certain amount of the content. The smaller the window, the greater percentage of visitors.

This tool is a fascinating insight into what people see when they look at a website – especially as our fixed computer screens get wider and wider.

Looking at these results, the first assumption would be that the ideal website would fit into the small purple area that most visitors see.  I disagree.  I think it is important to be aware of what people on mobile or other devices will see, but at the same time, you don’t want to waste the real estate screen that other visitors will see.

So my advice is to design your website so that the most important message is getting seen by everyone, be aware of what is most common and how changing behaviors will start to affect website design, and then make an informed decision about what will be best for your company.

What would a visitor to YOUR site see if they had a smaller window open?

Click here to learn more about this tool and check it out.  Or visit Google Labs to take a look at all the other fun stuff they’re working on.  And come back to tell us what you find :)

Katryn Search Engine Optimization, Technology, Tips , , , ,

  1. Edo
    May 17th, 2011 at 00:24 | #1

    I use TrackMySiteOnline.com to track my website, it also tracks my ads on craigslist and the reports are much detailed than Google analytics plus its free.

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