Split Reef Honored as “Guru of the Day” by Web Guru Awards

Split Reef is committed to creating a responsive website design that is functional for all, and it shows. The company has been named “Guru of the Day” by Web Guru Awards. The achievement honors Split Reef’s focus on responsive website design and how the company not only helps clients get a new website but helps them achieve higher SEO rankings as well.

The Guru of the Day Award

Web Guru Award’s Guru of the Day is awarded to companies that show innovation in design, development, and creativity. Guru of the Day winners are eligible to become Guru of the Month and Guru of the Year, as well.

“Responsive web design services are a cornerstone of SEO development. When a website can be viewed on mobile, tablet, or desktop, search engines take a shine to it. With a responsive website design company like Split Reef, businesses not only get a new, functional site, but they also see better search engine ranking results.” Web Guru Awards said of Split Reef’s Guru of the Day honor on its website.

What is Responsive Website Design?

Sites with responsive design that are eligible for the Guru of the Day award are easily viewed on desktop computers, tablets, smartphones, and any other device that is able to access the internet. This means that no matter where a visitor comes from, they will find a fully-functional website with pictures, videos, and text easily accessible.

What is SEO?

Search engine optimization (SEO) goes hand-in-hand with a responsive design for Split Reef’s  Guru of the Day honor. SEO refers to the many tactics websites can use to increase their search engine rankings on Google, Bing, Yahoo, etc. These tactics include using keywords in website content, optimizing meta titles and descriptions, and adding alt text to photos, among others. Sites that have high SEO rankings provide relevant information in an easy-to-digest format for those searching on the internet.

Why Responsive Design and SEO Are Important

Both responsive website design and SEO bring more visitors to websites and keep them there. Instead of turning potential customers away with slow load times and content that’s hard to read and access, sites that are responsive and optimized are clear and concise, resulting and more conversions and customers.

Split Reef’s Services

Split Reef provides digital marketing and website development services for customers large and small. The company is flexible and provides clients with a range of strategies to help increase web presence and increase SEO rankings. Located in Columbus, Ohio, and Jacksonville, Florida, it brings in varied experiences and backgrounds for logical, fully developed marketing strategy. Its experience, dedication, and tactical approach are only part of what makes it a Guru of the Day.

If you’re looking for responsive website design, mobile app design, search engine optimization, or other digital marketing services, this Guru of the Day, award-winning company is here to help. Split Reef will review your digital presence and develop a strategy to increase customers and profit. Contact the experts and get a quote today!

Front End Development vs. Back End Development: What’s the Difference?

Difference Between Front End And Back End Web Development

If you’ve looked into the web design and development industry at all, you’ve probably already noticed the terms “front end development” and “back end development.” Whether you’re looking for a job in web design, coding, developing, or simply are just curious about how websites are made, there’s a good chance you’ve come across these words before, as they’re normally used within close proximity of one another.

But it’s important to note the difference between front end and back end web development, as the two roles in web development work together to create engaging, beautiful, and end-user-focused sites that drive business growth and solidify company branding with custom web development.

First, let’s look at the basics of each role before jumping into explaining front end development vs. back end development.

Front End Development:

Front end development acts like the face of the website. This part of development determines how end-users interact with the site and what they see when they visit. Very little of front-end development has to do with coding and algorithms; it’s more about the design of the website that informs the work that back end does. Sometimes, the role of front-end developer is also called “web designer,” as they design and build the face of the site. Top Web Design Companies Of 2020 according to DesignRush

Back End Development:

Back end development is commonly referred to as the “server-side” of the site. This is where all the coding, algorithms, creating libraries, and writing APIs comes in. Back-end developers create the site in order for everything on the front-end side to function. End users never see this side of the site, as back end development deals primarily with the “less fun” part of visiting a website. native app vs web app

Now, let’s look at the main differences between front end and back end web development

It’s easier to think of front end vs. back end development as two sides of the same coin. While they both work congruently to ensure that the website looks good and also works well, there’s key differences between the two roles:

  • Front end development deals with text, graphics, images, buttons, and navigation menus while back end development deals with storing, organizing, and creating the functionality of this data on the front end.
  • Front end development uses Javascript, HTML, CSS while back end development primarily uses languages like Ruby, .Net, Java, and Python (depending on the project).
  • Back end development is referred to as “server-side” and never seen by the end-user, while front end development is “client-side” and is the part that visitors interact with.
  • Front end is visual, back end is the coding that makes the visuals work

Contact Split Reef for Front or Back End Development Projects

Are you looking to upgrade your website to allow visitors to place orders, make payments, upload and download files, and more? Split Reef’s expert team of front end and back end developers can help turn your business’ website from static and boring to a functional and beautiful piece of your company brand. Interact with your visitors more and let our team to the work to turn your website visitors into long-term, loyal customers. Contact our Columbus-based web design company.

Read More: Cloud Based App vs. Web Based App: Which is Better for Your Organization?

ADA Compliance Website Checklist 2021

Make Sure Your Website is Accessible to All Visitors with this ADA Compliance Website Checklist for 2021

As more and more businesses are switching to the Internet as a quicker, more convenient way to do business, companies must ensure their website is accessible by all people. That often means following an ADA compliance website checklist, or ADA website compliance guidelines outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act that give those with disabilities equal access to websites for paying bills, finding information, etc. All websites are held to the standards of being perceivable, adaptable, distinguishable, operable, understandable, and robust. Our ADA compliance website checklist fall into all of these categories.

If your company is looking for ways to create or alter a website that is more accessible to everybody, consider these 2021 ADA compliance website checklist we’ve gathered to make sure you have your bases covered. The full list of the ADA compliance website checklist is available online from the Web Accessibility Initiative.

Making Images Accessible

For those who use devices that help them read webpages better, ADA website compliance for 2021 states it is important to make sure that the content of an image is clear to all users. By adding “alt tags” to all of the images on your website, you can give context to what is in the image so that it is clear to every visitor. This bit of HTML code should indicate what exactly is presented in the image. Another ADA compliance website guideline states that websites must not include images of text, with the exception of logos, branding, and graph labels.

ADA Compliant Font Size

ADA compliance website guidelines say that color alone cannot convey meaning on a webpage. This means that text using color must offer an alternative form that is easily accessible by the user. For ADA website compliance, websites must have a specific color contrast ratio of text against its background. The site’s code should allow for manipulation to fit the user’s specific browser settings and preferences. When following the website ADA compliance checklist, any links present within the text should stand out clearly as separate from the text.

ADA Compliant Video & Audio Files

Those who have difficulty seeing or hearing will need an alternative way to access videos and audio files presented on a website. Based on ADA Website Compliance, your website must provide closed captioning or transcript files for all video and audio files to make them accessible to those who are hard of hearing. Furthermore, for the ADA compliance website checklist, audio and video files cannot play automatically without the user pressing “play.”

ADA Compliant Design & Functionality

For ADA website compliance in 2021, HTML should be clean and free of errors. There should be nested headings to provide a clear flow of information and consistent labels for each section of the website. For the functionality component under the ADA compliance checklist, sites should be easy to navigate with a keyboard alone and have consistent navigation features on each page with the ability to zoom up to 200 percent without having a negative affect on the website’s readability. Under ADA compliance guidelines, a sitemap is also required on the homepage and there must be a search component that is easily accessible.

Websites that adhere to the ADA compliance checklist are functional for all and provide a better Internet browsing experience. If you’re curious about if your website currently meets ADA website compliance for 2021 or need help altering the website code to fit these standards, contact us for 2020 ADA website compliance development services.

Best Face Recognition Apps for iOS and Android users (Updated 2022)

Best Facial Recognition Apps for Security, Organization, and Entertainment in 2022

Facial recognition technology has become increasingly popular in recent years, and users of both iOS and Android devices can now take advantage of this cutting-edge technology with various apps. These apps allow users to unlock their phones, make payments, and even access secure documents with just a glance. In this blog post, we will be discussing the best face recognition apps available for both iOS and Android users.

No, you’re not living in an episode of Black Mirror. Though it may be hard to believe, it’s 2022, and your phone apps can detect your face. Whether you decide to use those face recognition apps for extra security, photo identification, or to see what you’ll look like when you’re old, face recognition apps are here and they’re not going away any time soon.

What is Face Recognition Apps Used For?

Similar to a fingerprint or eye recognition system, a face recognition app will use your camera to detect facial features to those stored in a database. While some people like face identifier apps to create true-to-life emojis, others prefer these programs to keep their phones and information secure. Whatever you decide to use them for, you only want to install the best face recognition apps on your phone.

Following are the Top 10 and Best Face Recognition Apps in 2022:

We’ve compiled a list of the best face recognition apps for both iOS and Android users.

  • Face ID
  • Google Face Recognition
  • BioID – Facial Recognition App
  • KeyLemon
  • Luxand FaceSDK
  • MojiPop – iOS and Android Free Face Recognition
  • FaceFirst – (iOS and Android)
  • Luxand – Face Recognition App
  • FaceApp
  • True Key
  • Railer
  • Face Lock Face Recognition App
  • Face2Gene – Facial Recognition App
  • AppLock Voice Face Recognition App

Face ID

Face ID is a built-in feature on newer iPhones and iPads that uses facial recognition technology to unlock the device. It’s incredibly secure, and Apple claims that there is a one in a million chance of someone else being able to unlock your device with Face ID. It can also be used to make purchases within apps and on the web using Apple Pay.

Google Face Recognition

Google has integrated facial recognition technology into its Android operating system, allowing users to unlock their devices using their faces. It’s a convenient and secure way to keep your device safe and can also be used to make payments within apps and on the web.

BioID

BioID is a face recognition app that can be used for a variety of purposes, including securing your phone, logging in to websites and apps, and even verifying your identity in financial transactions. The app is incredibly accurate and secure, using a combination of facial recognition and liveness detection technology to ensure that it’s really you trying to access your device or account.

Luxand FaceSDK

Luxand FaceSDK is a developer tool that can be used to integrate facial recognition technology into your own apps. It’s incredibly accurate and can be used for a variety of purposes, including security, user identification, and even marketing purposes.

MojiPop – iOS and Android Free Face Recognition

It is a free facial recognition app for both iOS and Android users. Create your funny animated stickers using your face with this app.

FaceFirst – (iOS and Android)

online face recognition application for law, military, retailers, and other organizations. FaceFirst helps organizations to keep their communities safer.

Luxand – Face Recognition App

Luxand Face Recognition and Luxand Face SDK save and memorize faces from still images and live video streams. Capabilities like face detection and gender/age recognition allow added security in today’s world. These can also be used as a face unlock app or a fun app that lets you see how you look with a beard, gives you piercings, or creates a 3-D avatar.

FaceApp

FaceApp is one of our best face recognition apps because it gives you premium face filter options when editing photos on your smartphone. Its features will allow you to change gender in a photo, add a smile, or get younger.

True Key

True Key is a password manager app that uses facial recognition technology to log you in to your various accounts. It’s a convenient way to keep track of all your passwords and make sure they’re secure. The app also works with Touch ID and can be used to log in to websites and apps without having to remember a password.

KeyLemon

KeyLemon is another face recognition app that can be used to unlock your device and log in to various websites and apps. It’s easy to set up and incredibly accurate, using a 3D facial recognition technology to make sure that it’s you trying to access your device or account.

Railer

The railer face recognition app is a mobile attendance app for small to large companies.

Face Lock Face Recognition App

Face Lock – Face Recognition App available only for Android users, FaceLock lets you unlock your apps through face recognition. This face identification app provides security through password/PIN protection and face unlock. Features work for both accessing your phone and opening supported apps.

Face2Gene – Facial Recognition App

Face2Gene facial recognition app is a healthcare facial recognition app for detecting genetic disorders. The next-generation phenotyping tool provides analysis of facial features to detect possible complications. A list of medical facilities and resources is also available through the app for further help.

AppLock Voice Face Recognition App

AppLock Face/Voice Recognition is an Android-based voice and face biometrics technologies app. Using this voice and facial recognition app you can lock individual apps, phones, and tablets.

Face identifier apps are just the beginning of app innovations to protect our privacy and make the software more fun. Now that you know the best face recognition apps, it’s only a matter of time before we start seeing the next technological advancements in security, healthcare, and entertainment. Are you looking app development company to build one of the next best face recognition apps? Or do you need help marketing your apps? Trust us for all of your mobile app-related needs!

Facial recognition technology is becoming more prevalent in our daily lives, and these apps are just a few examples of how we can take advantage of this technology on our iOS devices. From unlocking our phones to logging in to our accounts, facial recognition technology is making our lives easier and more secure. Whether you’re an iOS user looking for a convenient way to manage your passwords or a developer looking to integrate facial recognition technology into your own apps, there’s an app on this list that can help you achieve your goals.

Benefits of Custom Web Application Development

6 Benefits of Customized Web Application Development

A web application is a client-server computer program that is stored on a remote server and delivered through the internet via a web browser.

Some common web applications you’ve probably worked with include Google Docs, Pixlr, Evernote, Trello, and Netflix. Essentially, a web application is an online computer program that can help you perform a function, rather than just take in information.

If you’re a business, having a customized web application can not only benefit your employees but can benefit your customers. Here are six benefits of a customized web application:

1. It’s Tailor Made

A web application made for your business by a web application development company will be exactly what you need to solve your problems. The application will be created to serve the specific purpose you need it for, and you can rest assured your application will be able to handle all your business requirements.

2. It’s Scalable

Sure, off-the-shelf software may address most of your business needs, however, it’s not as scalable as something custom built. Having a custom web application developed will guarantee that your application can grow as your business does, and you won’t be forced to switch to a more expensive program or worry about costly license purchases.

3. It’s Safe.

Most online hacking comes from hackers being knowledgeable of weak points in commonly used software, which can put a big target on your business if you use one of that software. To hack a custom-coded application would take much more time and effort to learn the program, so it will be a less attractive target.

4. It’s Adaptable.

If your business already uses a few other software, it’s no problem to create your custom web app to flow seamlessly with them. Unlike utilizing multiple off-the-shelf solutions which often will not work together efficiently, a custom web app can be created with your other preferred software in mind, ensuring higher productivity and easy workflow.

5. It’s Consistently Maintained.

When you use commercial software, you’re forced to count on that software development company to keep your software running. If the company shuts down or if they decide to no longer maintain that app, you’ll be forced to switch software, which can be an unexpected expense for your business.

6. You Can Save Money Over Time.

Of course, having a custom web application built isn’t necessarily cheaper than using something off the shelf, but over time it can save you a great deal of money. You won’t have to pay for licensing packages or purchase extra hardware because your application can be built to work with your existing hardware. You’ll also own your application, so you won’t have to pay to use it (only for maintenance).

When you’re looking for custom web app development services, look to our digital marketing agency – Split Reef. We’ve developed dozens of custom web applications for clients all over the world, and we have the skills and expertise to deliver exactly what your business needs.

Reach out to us online or give us a call at (614) 721-2854 to get your quote today!

Cloud Based App vs. Web Based App: Which is Better for Your Organization?

What is the difference between a cloud based application and web based application?

Do you have an idea for a web app? Are you looking for guidance and assistance on your mission to turn your idea into reality? This is the case for many people.

Just because you have an idea for a web app doesn’t mean you also have the technical expertise to create it yourself. Most people need to defer to the experts and contract the services of a web application development company.

There are many people who can benefit from the services of a web application development company. Even if you don’t think you have a million-dollar idea for an app and you just need one developed for your business, you should find a cloud-based application development company.

One of the choices that a web application development company will confront you with is this: Do you want a cloud-based app or a web app?

In order to give an informed response to this question, you’ll need to understand what a cloud app is.

What is a Cloud Based App?

A cloud based app is an application that operates through the cloud and has some characteristics of both pure desktop apps and pure web apps.

A cloud app is sort of a more advanced web app. It’s used just as much to access online content over the Internet as web apps, but it’s not totally dependent on a web browser to function.

Some characteristics of a cloud based app are:

  • Data is stored in a cloud infrastructure, which is a form of information architecture
  • Data can be cached locally
  • Accommodates different user requirements
  • Can be accessed from desktop or mobile devices
  • Facilitates access to a greater range of services

Some cloud apps that you might be familiar with are: Dropbox, Evernote, Mozy, SalesForce, and Sugar Sync.

Cloud App Development Services in Columbus, Ohio

While that description of what a cloud app is and how it works was meant to be simple, it was probably still fairly confusing for those of us who don’t work in the cloud application development industry.

But hey, luckily for us, there are professionals whose job it is to understand what a cloud app is, how it works, and why it’s awesome. As somebody who is just interested in creating a web application, this isn’t your job.

For this reason, contacting a web application development company in Columbus, Ohio is critical. When you get in contact with a representative from a web application development company in Columbus, Ohio, they will be able to explain the differences between cloud apps and web apps in a way that makes sense to you.

Then, using your newly acquired knowledge, you can make an informed decision regarding your web app – cloud-based or not?

Leave It to the Pros

In conclusion, if you are either totally confused by what a cloud app is or just unclear on whether a cloud app is right for you, consult a professional!

Split Reef is a web application development company in Columbus, Ohio that can take your web application project from start to finish with superior results.

Major Types of Digital Marketing

Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve heard of digital marketing. Even if you’ve never heard of it, you’ve experienced it in one form or another.

Don’t believe it? Well, you’re reading this blog (and it’s a type of digital marketing).

Here at Split Reef, a digital marketing agency in Columbus, Ohio, we’re well-versed in many digital marketing channels. To prove it to you, we’ll discuss four of the major types of digital marketing:

There are several major types of digital marketing:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

This involves optimizing your website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) for relevant keywords.

SEO, otherwise known as search engine optimization, is one of the most prevalent digital marketing channels. Essentially, it’s a way of manipulating the content on your website and other channels so that you show up higher in search engine results (like Google). The higher you rank, the more visible you are, and the more likely your website is to be visited. Split Reef is the best professional SEO services provider company in Columbus, Ohio.

Social Media Marketing (SMM)

This involves using social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to promote your business and engage with your audience. SMM is a shorter way of saying social media marketing, which involves the use of social platforms to promote a product or service. By utilizing social media marketing, brands, and business can interact with their consumers, increasing brand awareness and brand loyalty.

Content Marketing

This involves creating and distributing valuable content to attract and engage a target audience, with the ultimate goal of driving profitable customer action.

Content marketing is pretty much exactly what it sounds like – sharing content (whether it be blogs, videos, social media posts, etc.) online. Content marketing isn’t explicitly used to promote a brand but is used to generate interest in a brand’s products and services. The goal is to distribute valuable and relevant content that will not only attract but retain a specific audience, with the hopes of turning them into paying and returning customers.

Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC)

This is a form of online advertising where you pay each time someone clicks on one of your ads. PPC, aka pay-per-click advertising, is a way to get your website in front of as many eyes as possible. You pay for a certain number of clicks (determined by you), and your website is advertised to people on social media channels.

The good thing about PPC is that you’re only paying when someone clicks through to your website, and if you’ve utilized content marketing and have a valuable product to them, you could very well convert the visitor into a customer.

If you do a quick Google search (hello, SEO), you’ll see there’s a Columbus digital marketing agency pretty much anywhere you turn. But, if you want to guarantee your business’s online success, you better pick the right one. After all, you’re spending your hard-earned money, and you’ll want to make sure it pays off.

Email Marketing

This involves using email to communicate with your audience and promote your products or services.

Email marketing is a digital marketing strategy that involves sending promotional messages or newsletters to a group of people via email. The goal of email marketing is to build relationships with potential or existing customers by providing them with valuable content, offers, and updates.

Email marketing can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Promoting products or services
  • Increasing website traffic
  • Building brand awareness
  • Nurturing leads
  • Educating customers
  • Encouraging customer loyalty
  • Generating sales or revenue

The success of email marketing campaigns depends on several factors, such as the quality of the email list, the relevance and value of the content, the timing and frequency of emails, and the overall design and messaging of the emails.

Email marketing can be a cost-effective and powerful way to reach and engage with your target audience, as long as it is done strategically and with the customer’s needs and preferences in mind.

Affiliate Marketing

This is a performance-based marketing model where you pay affiliates a commission for each sale they generate.

In affiliate marketing, the business provides the affiliate with a unique tracking link, which the affiliate promotes through their own marketing channels, such as their website, social media, or email list. When someone clicks on the tracking link and makes a purchase, the affiliate earns a commission from the business.

Affiliate marketing can be a win-win situation for both the business and the affiliate. The business can reach a wider audience and increase sales without spending money on advertising upfront, and the affiliate can earn passive income by promoting products or services they believe into their audience.

There are several types of affiliate marketing, including:

  • Pay-per-sale: The affiliate earns a commission when someone makes a purchase through their tracking link.
  • Pay-per-lead: The affiliate earns a commission when someone fills out a form or takes a specific action through their tracking link.
  • Pay-per-click: The affiliate earns a commission when someone clicks on their tracking link, regardless of whether they make a purchase or not.

Affiliate marketing has become a popular revenue stream for bloggers, social media influencers, and website owners who have a loyal following and want to monetize their audience. As an affiliate, it’s important to disclose your relationship with the business and only promote products or services that align with your values and will provide value to your audience.

Influencer Marketing

This involves partnering with influential people on social media to promote your products or services.

Influencer marketing is a type of marketing strategy that involves partnering with individuals who have a large following and credibility on social media platforms to promote a brand or product. Influencers are typically people who have built a loyal audience through their content and have established themselves as experts or thought leaders in a particular niche.

Influencer marketing can take many forms, including sponsored posts, product reviews, endorsements, or collaborations. Brands can partner with influencers to reach their target audience in a more authentic and engaging way, as influencers have a strong connection with their followers and are seen as trustworthy sources of information.

The success of influencer marketing campaigns depends on several factors, such as the relevance of the influencer to the brand or product, the quality of the content, and the authenticity of the partnership. Brands need to choose the right influencer who aligns with their values and target audience to ensure that the partnership feels genuine and not forced.

Influencer marketing has become an increasingly popular marketing strategy, especially with the rise of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. It allows brands to reach a wider audience and build brand awareness in a more organic way, while also providing influencers with an opportunity to monetize their content and grow their personal brand.

Video Marketing

This involves creating and sharing videos to promote your business or products.

Video marketing is a type of digital marketing strategy that involves creating and sharing video content with the goal of promoting a brand, product, or service. Video marketing can take many forms, including product demos, brand stories, explainer videos, customer testimonials, and more.

Video marketing has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it allows brands to connect with their audience in a more engaging and memorable way. Videos can convey information in a more visual and interactive way than text or images alone, and can be shared across multiple platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and more.

One of the benefits of video marketing is that it can help increase brand awareness and engagement. Videos are more likely to be shared and go viral than other types of content, which can help expand a brand’s reach and attract new customers.

Video marketing can also help increase conversions and sales. Studies have shown that using video on landing pages can increase conversion rates by up to 80%, as videos can help explain a product or service in more detail and provide a more immersive experience for the viewer.

Overall, video marketing can be a powerful tool for businesses looking to connect with their audience and grow their brand. It allows them to tell their story in a more compelling way and can help increase engagement, conversions, and sales.

These are just a few of the major types of digital marketing, and it’s important to choose the right mix of tactics for your business based on your goals and target audience.

Contact our Top Rated Digital Marketing Agency

That’s why at Split Reef, we’ve proven time and time again to our customers that we have the chops to take their digital marketing to the next level – and we have the portfolio to prove it.

We’re a Google Partner and a Bing Ads accredited professional. We’ve also been listed as one of the Top Interactive Agencies. When you put your trust in us, you’ll be sure to see results.

When you’re ready to get serious about your digital marketing, reach out to us online for a free quote, or give us a call at (614) 721-2854.

Split Reef goes above and beyond for clients, no matter where they are.

Are you looking for more social media engagement or want to ensure that your website visitors turn into customers? No matter your needs, Split Reef has digital marketing services in Columbus that are unmatched with 24/5 technical support. No matter the problem, our staff has the know-how and the professionalism to help you solve it. That’s what makes us one of the top-rated Columbus digital marketing agencies in the area. But you won’t know for yourself unless you give us a call. Digital Agencies