Parallax and Infinite scrolling are two effects for your website that have been around for years and are adhering to new developments. These tools eliminate the need for pagination. However, these scrolling techniques aren’t for everyone, and here’s why…

Infinite Scrolling

Infinite scrolling is a technique that allows users to scroll down the page while loading content continuously. This eliminates the need for users to manually direct themselves to another page. 

Endless scrolling makes it easier for consumers to enjoy their time on the platform rather than jumping to various pages. 

Social media sites, like Twitter and Instagram, adopt this technique. However, just because they are popular doesn’t mean you should adopt this technique. 

These pages are good for time-killing activities if users are looking to explore content rather than the mechanics of navigation. 

Is it for you?

Endless scrolling is popular with e-commerce sites that allow the users to engage with the content. This technique is not recommended for goal-oriented sites such as finding tasks. When on a search for a task, people are trying to locate a certain product. This is where filtering and navigation benefit the user. 

In addition, trying to locate a previously found item on a never-ending page can be difficult and create a bad user experience. 

You also must be aware of the psychological effect of infinite scrolling. Some people enjoy a beginning and an end to establish an accomplishment and location mapping. On the other hand, if you have an infinite page to scroll upon the user can become overwhelmed with content and feel as though a decision may become difficult due to the mass amount of information. 

Parallax Scrolling

The parallax effect has been around for many years in the design world. This effect uses multiple backgrounds that move at different speeds to create the sensation of depth…AKA an interesting browser experience. 

Here are a few examples of websites that user Parallax Scrolling:

• www.werkstatt.com
• www.marquonslhistoire.com
• www.laser.nyc

In some cases, this effect is the star of the show. Sometimes, this can be overwhelming but when used sparingly it can provide a nice element of depth. 

• It’s visually effective
• Can increase engagement 
• Unique experience. 

Cons

SEO is a huge reliant on page navigation. With continuous scrolling and conjoined pages, SEO optimization can decrease. 

Two other factors that are affected are load times and usability. Although this technique is visually appealing, the load time may be longer which can frustrate fast-paced consumers.

Along with infinite scrolling, if the website obtains large amounts of content, it can be hard for the user to navigate the site when looking for something specific. 

What is best for your business?

 Infinite scrolling is extremely beneficial for e-commerce sites but probably is not for you if site visitors want to achieve goal-oriented activities, such as when they need to backtrack or find specific information quickly. Parallax scrolling is commonly used nowadays. This technique is better for those who want to make a great impression but do not house heavy content pages.

If you are in the market for a website redesign, contact Blue Archer.