In this post, we discuss an important topic for every white label web design and development agency owner: “Embedding audio into a website.” You will learn about the most common methods and use cases for adding the audio functionality, as well as when embedding audio into a website is not the best idea.
Your agency has invested a lot of effort into crafting a website for your small business client. The design is aesthetically pleasing, the photographs are stunning, and the video content is strategically placed. Now, to enhance it further, consider the careful incorporation of sound.
Sound can be a powerful tool to differentiate from competitors, aid in information retention (think of all those catchy brand jingles), and foster an emotional bond with a brand. When used correctly, audio can even boost SEO rankings.
In essence, when used appropriately, audio can significantly enrich a website’s user experience.
Here are several methods for embedding audio into a website:
Common Ways to Embed Audio Into a Website
#1: Use HTML5
You can manually embed audio into your website using the HTML5 element. When you insert it with the command and source attribute (src), the browser’s default audio settings will apply. However, you can specify how the audio will play, such as setting it to autoplay or muting it by default so that users can decide whether to enable sound.
Example:
<audio controls autoplay>
<source src=”my_song.ogg” type=”audio/ogg”>
<source src=”my_song.mp3″ type=”audio/mpeg”>
</audio>
With audio muted:
<audio controls autoplay muted>
<source src=”my_song.ogg” type=”audio/ogg”>
<source src=”my_song.mp3″ type=”audio/mpeg”>
</audio>
#2: Incorporate JavaScript
When embedding a file into a website without resorting to a widget, we advise you to supplement HTML5 with JavaScript. This language offers more flexibility to ensure the audio seamlessly integrates into the site and behaves as desired.
For instance, it enables the display of play, pause, mute, and other control buttons. Further examples include setting the default to mute but allowing easy access to volume control (highly recommended due to potential distraction from sound), and programming your script to emit specific sounds in reaction to user interactions, such as during a quiz.
Here’s a sample on how to integrate a play button, pause controller, and script into HTML code:
<audio controls id=”audio_controls”>
<source src=”my_song.mp3″ type=”audio/mpeg”>
</audio>
<p>To play or pause music, click the respective buttons.</p>
<button onclick=”play()” type=”button”>Play </button>
<button onclick=”pause()” type=”button”>Pause</button>
<script>
var mySong= document.getElementById(“audio_controls”);
function play() {
mySong.play();
}
function pause() {
mySong.pause();
}
</script>
#3: Audio Hosting
A straightforward way to embed audio into a website is by using an audio hosting site like SoundCloud or Mixcloud. Simply upload the file and obtain an HTML embed code. Copy and paste this code into the webpage’s code or WYSIWYG site editor. This method works with most CMS platforms and website builders.
Common Use Cases for Adding Audio to a Website
Understanding how to embed audio is one thing, knowing when to do so is another. Past experiences have shown that thoughtlessly added audio can be more of a problem than an enhancement.
However, appropriately integrated audio can significantly enhance user experience, provided it’s added at the right moment.
Consider the following: Is It absolutely necessary?
Firstly, evaluate the necessity of adding audio to a page. Reflect on its relevance and impact on your page. Does it reinforce the objective or message you’re trying to convey, and does it do so effectively?
Consider the user’s search intent and whether audio will enhance it. For example, if a user is seeking a definition, a brief text block may suffice. Conversely, if they’re investigating how something works, a detailed audio or video clip might be more suitable.
Analyzing the top-ranking pages on Google for a search term can provide insights. If they’re using audio, you probably should too.
Take Into Account the Browsing Environment
In addition to search intent, consider the likely browsing location and device. Will your site be viewed quietly in an office, or on-the-go via a mobile browser?
This understanding can influence your decision to use sound. Adding sound when users are likely in a quiet environment could be annoying for them and others.
Similarly, if users are likely to access the audio in a noisy place, like a food court, make sure your sound can compete with background noise. Such contextual understanding can help tailor your audio and ultimately enhance the user experience on your page.
To Wrap Up
The integration of audio can significantly enhance a website’s user experience, differentiate it from competitors, aid in information retention, and foster emotional bonds with a brand. Various methods for embedding audio include using audio hosting sites, manually using HTML5, or incorporating JavaScript for a more flexible and controlled audio experience.
However, it’s crucial to consider the necessity and relevance of the audio, the user’s search intent, and the likely browsing environment before adding audio. By exercising careful consideration and strategic implementation, audio can become an effective tool in enriching a website’s appeal and functionality.