Infinite Scroll Design: Everything You Need To Know

What is Infinite Scroll Design?

Infinite Scroll Design refers to a technique in which the content loads endlessly as and when users move to the end of the page. This happens without a load button or a finish line. The user is able to scroll down without being interrupted. This design is also called the continuous scrolling design, as the user can scroll continuously.

The infinite scroll design is different from pagination and load more techniques. Pagination divides the site content into different pages and gives a load more button when the user reaches the bottom of the page.

The infinite scroll design is not fit for all kinds of websites and apps. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of infinite scroll design:

Advantages

1. Keeps the users hooked for longer: Infinite scroll design holds the users attention because it shows new content without interruptions. This keeps them engaged for longer.

2. Works well for mobile apps: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram are great examples of mobile apps that leverage this technique to keep the users on the app for longer.

3. No waiting time: Infinite scroll design allows for non-stop content uploads. In todays age, speed matters, and users don't like to wait. This technique allows for fast content viewing.

4. Greater discoveries: Websites that host a wide variety of information can use this technique as it allows indecisive users to discover new content as they scroll.

5. No clicks: As the user doesn't have to click anywhere for more content to load, there are no clicks involved. This gives a seamless user experience.

Disadvantages

1. Not suitable for users who know what they want: This design leaves a bad impact on users who have come with a specific purpose to the site. They want footers and navigation bars to see the content they are looking for, but that is difficult with infinite scrolling.

2. Difficult to get back to a specific position/content: Infinite scroll design shows no way of getting back to a specific position. The back button will not take you to your previous position.

3. Footers are difficult to locate: Important links in footers are hard to find as new content loads as soon as users reach the end of the page. The about us or contact us links are to be located somewhere else on the website.

4. Time-consuming and addictive: Hooking the users with new content makes it addictive for the users to scroll and scroll until they are exhausted. This happens to all the users on social media apps.

When to use Infinite Scroll in UI/UX design?

Some projects where Infinite Scroll Design is fit to use are:

• Search engines, like Google
• Sites that do storytelling for products or brands
• Ecommerce websites
• News apps and websites
• Social media apps

Don't use the infinite scrolling technique on sites where users are looking for specific content or are there to buy a product. Always use techniques that serve your user the best. MEDDIC Sales methodology agrees that user experience should be the first priority of every business. They provide sales training in such a way that is proven to increase their client's sales. The best part is their reasonable prices and extremely dedicated service.