Definition of Deep Linking
Deep linking is a tool used to help point user’s to a specific page in a website through the page they are on instead of from the home page. Deep
linking can be a good way to help visitors to a website get to a specific page, such as that of a product, without them having to go through multiple pages to find what they are looking for. The intention behind deep linking as a part of search engines is to allow visitors to get to their destination in an easier, more time-efficient way.
Why else might a website creator use deep linking? In addition to making transitioning from one page to another easier, deep linking can help to increase the conversion rate of the users. If your visitors can conveniently find what they are looking for, they are more likely to make purchases and continue to visit your site in the future. Deep links can be used on the web as well as in apps.
For mobile app deep linking there are two types of deep links:
• Classic deep link: a classic deep link is a link that will take the user to a selected place in an app. In order for this function to work, the user must have the app installed on their device.
• Deferred deep link: when a user clicks on a deferred deep link, the device can recognize that the app isn’t installed and will forward the user to the location they can download it. Once the app is installed, the deep link will take the user to the specific spot.
What are good practices to follow when deep linking? Keeping your links up-to-date is a must. You don’t want links to break or send users to a page that no longer exists. It is important to remember that mobile deep links aren’t as easy to redirect as deep links on the web. This mainly has to do with the fact that people don’t update apps immediately.
Another benefit of deep linking includes the ability to retarget. You can use deep links to direct visitors anywhere by, for example, offering rewards. Incentives can encourage visitors to open your app, if that is your goal. If your goal is to sell more of your product, you may reward customer loyalty.
There are a number of ways that mobile apps can benefit from deep links:
• Marketing campaigns: you can target a specific audience through your app by running a marketing campaign that will get their attention.
• QR Code: A QR code printed on a leaflet can attract new customers. A camera can scan the QR code and the user will be taken straight to the intended page.
• E-commerce: If you have a customer order through your online shop, a confirmation of their purchase can include a link that takes them to an app where they can track the status of their order.
Deep linking on the web or through apps can be a helpful tool in getting users where they want to be in the quickest way possible.
Deep Linking Definition Sources:
Categorized in: Digital Marketing Glossary
LIKE AND SHARE THIS ARTICLE:
