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News: Facebook Business Pages Get "Streamlined"

Wednesday 19 March 2014

6 minute read

By Sarah Burns

It's been revealed that Facebook Business pages will this week get a new look, in an effort to make them "streamlined".

When we signed into our Facebook Business page (@ThriveHQ) on Monday (March 17th), it showed us just how the updates will change the look of all Facebook Business pages. As well as this, it gave users the opportunity to join a waiting list (yes, these things require a queue!) for the brand new layout.

All of the excitement that often swamps social media design updates has of course happened again. The big question is, just how effective could this update be and what will it mean for both businesses and the general public viewing these profiles?

Only desktop users will benefit from the changes

The most important points about the update are...

  1. It's being rolled out across Business Pages this week
  2. Only those browsing on desktop computers will benefit from the changes

We beg of you, Facebook, 'what's the point?'

As with all social media changes, a lot of people are wary about new updates (as with anything in life). So, why the fuss over this update - what will it do for usability?

Facebook's answer: "...it will make it easier for people to find the information they want and help Page admins find the tools they use most" (source).

What's in it for... users?

The infamous timeline design should become much sleeker in the update - but, remember, only desktop users will benefit. With the right-side column displaying all of your page's posts only, the effect should be a streamlined and consistent view for desktop readers.

The left-side doesn't get "left behind", instead it is being filled with information about your business (map, contact details, description, hours of business) and becomes a place for your multimedia to stay.

Overall, the update means the Business Pages will finally catch up with the User Pages which got a similar makeover a long time ago.

What's in it for... admins?

The main differences will be seen to page admins, rather than actual users, we're afraid.

With this update, you will be able to view analytics and information about your company page, no matter whereabouts on the page you are.

On top of the expected 'unread notifications' and 'messages', you will be able to see information on ad campaigns you're running and new 'likes' for your page. There will also be a "This Week" section so you can find more details about the latest goings-on for your page.

A new navigation is also included in the update, so admins can better access detailed analytics, settings and info about business pages, as well as a "Build Audience" menu for page admins looking to further the scope of their page.

Facebook allows you to get competitive

In the update, a rather sneaky - but ingenious - inclusion is the "Pages to Watch" section (in the "Page Insights" tool), for admins. This feature allows you to include pages that either you like, are inspired by or the pages of your competitors. Once listed, you will be able to see how similar / dissimilar they are to your own and compare their performance and yours. 

If you're looking to embark on a website build project, whether it's completely from scratch or a site refresh, our ebook will give you the knowledge to make your project as stress-free as possible.

The Website Design Handbook for Businesses

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