Many people do everything in their lives from mobile apps. From the minute they wake up until they sleep at night, ordering food, interacting with friends, and even finishing their jobs on apps. However, if there isn’t an app for something, many people don’t know how to function.
Mobile applications are here to stay, and business app development has exploded. To both acquire and retain customers these days, apps are essential. As a result, app developers are doing very well, and business is booming.
However, within the first three months after downloading an app, more than 70% of users uninstall it. To keep your app on user devices, you need to understand the user. What did they expect from your app? How did it not meet user expectations? The app development industry is highly competitive, and to survive, your apps need to stay on user smartphones and tablets.
The mobile development team from Digital Authority Partners has created the following guide to help would-be mobile app developers find success in 2022 and beyond.
Types of Mobile Apps
As an app developer, you’re undoubtedly already familiar with the various types of mobile applications. But, it’s essential to consider each type before starting on a project.
Native mobile apps only work on one operating system, typically iOS or Android. Since native apps operate on a single platform, they’re faster, smoother, and more reliable. Ideally, developers will create an iOS and Android version of each app.
Cross-platform mobile applications use an intermediate language that can run on iOS and Android. Typically, cross-platform apps use plug-ins to access the native operating system. Unfortunately, you can not share all cross-platform app codes, which may need rewriting.
HTML5 hybrid apps are also cross-platform compatible. However, these apps use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, similar to a website rather than plug-ins.
Building Mobile Apps for Business
Developers are both technicians and artists and can run their businesses. However, developers need to get out of their comfort zone to effectively build mobile apps for other companies. That means adopting the mindset of that business and its customers.
You may need to build into a mobile application that includes support options, a shopping cart, a loyalty program, and push notifications. Plan each app carefully.
Also, keep in mind that the business owner may not know about all available options. So, have a consultation in which you ask them if they have a loyalty program and what type of support they typically provide. Modeling the app after a business website is generally a smart way to go.
Make Your Mobile Applications Fail-Proof
Unfortunately, you may face your apps uninstalled after downloading unless you abide by the following rules.
You didn’t research the target audience: Only your target audience will want your app. And, if it doesn’t meet expectations, they’ll quickly uninstall it. So you need to understand what the audience wants and needs and build that into the application. Also, you’ll need to make it easy to find in the app store.
Poorly designed app with a poor user experience: The design and experience must meet the users’ expectations. It needs to look good, be easy-to-use, and serve the function. Test the app for functionality, usability, and bugs at every stage. If the app does what it’s supposed to do seamlessly, it will stay on the user’s devices.
You or the business does not have a marketing strategy: Businesses with popular websites need to post a link to the app store listing. Also, physical business locations need to post signage and otherwise get the word out about the app. You’ll also need to optimize the app store listing with keywords, spread the word on social media, and possibly pay for a few digital ads.
It won’t make money: The app needs to increase a business’s sales, have ad revenue, have in-app purchases, or be a paid download. Regardless, the app needs to be profitable in the long run.
Steps to Take When Building a Successful Mobile App
To build successful mobile applications, you need to go through a series of steps. Don’t skip any of the following steps, or you risk a failed app.
Research
Once you have an app in mind, the first step involves market research. This research includes analyzing demographics, user behavior, and user requirements and expectations. You’ll need to build the results of your study into the app. This integration includes:
- The primary purpose of the app
- Features that help your application stand out to your target audience
- A list of the benefits the application will provide to its users
- Projected app market performance
Formulate a business plan
You’ll need to consider how to generate revenue from the app, how you will market it, and how much of your time it will take to develop it. Developing the app needs to be worth your time, and it needs to turn a profit eventually.
Build requirements
What type of app is appropriate? Native, cross-platform, or HTML5? Do you or your team have the technical skills to build the application, or will you need to outsource it? How much time will it take to finish the project? All of this needs planning begin the project.
Building a prototype
You’ll first need to build a prototype to test, not only in-house but also with random users. This experiment will provide valuable feedback about its usability and functionality.
The results from prototype testing will determine its success if built with all of the required functions. Next, decide which resolution methods are necessary to correct any errors. Also, test user feedback may suggest which parts need addressing after initial testing.
Designing
The most important things to consider are the user interface and the user experience. You also want to maintain brand consistency, especially when building apps for businesses. So everything from the graphics, fonts, and user interaction needs to be considered.
The development process
Now that you have completed the planning process, we’re finally into the nitty-gritty of app development. This next phase involves backend technology, frontend development, and API development.
- Backend development involves working with a database, the architecture, and the application’s scripting. Backend development can include using PHP, Ruby on Rails, JavaScript, HTML5, or Python.
- API development ties together the main application and any third-party plug-ins.
- Frontend development involves the user interface, managed via APIs, local databases, and backend technology.
Security
Building security is also crucial. Mobile app security includes data encryption, firewalls, authorized APIs, and correct and securely written code.
Testing
A crucial phase of mobile app development involves testing and fixing any bugs. Conduct testing for industry best practices, performance, and user experience throughout the development stage.
Tests for memory use, scalability, and security also need to be done. Health and wellness apps may also require testing for HIPAA compliance. So be sure to test your apps before thoroughly launching them to the public.
Deployment
Finally, your app is ready for the app store! You’ll need to have excellent screenshots ready, as well as promotional text. App store listings need keyword optimization, a sales pitch chock full of benefits, and gorgeous photos. Your page on the app store is your landing page to sell the app to your target audience.
Marketing
Once the app is up and ready for download, it’s time to let people know about it. Again, it would be best to have a marketing plan ready to go. This plan can include a website, social media promotions, and paid ads.
Mobile App Development Isn’t Going Anywhere
If you’re getting into mobile app development, rest assured, you’ll have job security. Apps may saturate some categories, but new opportunities arise all of the time.
We hope you have found this helpful guide as you build your career as a mobile app developer. Building successful applications involve much more than coding. It also requires market research and a marketing plan.
