Single-page long-scrolling websites have become a familiar web design trend. A recent development in this genre is the parallax scrolling website. The parallax effect has been used for years in classic video games and has now moved into the world of web design. It involves the use of multiple backgrounds which seem to move at different speeds to create a sensation of depth. As the user scrolls down the page, animations are triggered resulting in a very engaging browsing experience.

distance to mars
www.distancetomars.com

The complexities of creating parallax scrolling sites initially made them somewhat unwieldy and uneconomical. However the introduction of parallax scrolling plugins such as Skrollr and ScrollMagic has resulted in greater creative possibilities for the designer and a more cost-effective option for the client. These sites are now also fully responsive across all devices and browsers.

flat vs realism
www.flatvsrealism.com

At MOR, we believe that 'content is king'. We especially love how parallax scrolling offers an opportunity to back up that content with animation and 'tell a story as you scroll'. When used in a carefully considered way, it offers the ideal setting to tell more vivid and interactive stories. It can be used to draw your visitors in and let them travel through time. A great example is the website For Better Coffee which follows a coffee bean on its journey. Parallax scrolling enables your visitors to take control and walk through your story at their own pace. The different layers that respond differently to the scrolling behaviour of your visitors create a sense of depth and can even allow for multiple story lines.

cyclemon
www.cyclemon.com

As well as storytelling, there are many other great reasons to use parallax scrolling in web design. The technique allows your product to be presented in new and appealing ways. Unlike standard web techniques which show static web content, this advancement allows your visitor to interact with your site and by doing so explore your product on their own initiative. For example, the Bagagia website offers a 3D presentation of their product which is controlled by scrolling. The direct feedback that the website user gets with parallax scrolling is engaging and extremely motivating. This makes users willing to enter your site and listen to your story. Users can be guided into the site, through the content and towards the call to action. The Oakley website does this very effectively. With parallax scrolling you can also give your website a very unique look & feel which will help you to stand out from your competitors.

How we can help

We love helping clients tell their story. Let us tell your story and make it a memorable experience for your user. Contact us today to find out more about how parallax scrolling might benefit your website.