“There’s an app for that.” How many times have you heard this catchphrase? It’s practically become the Millennial mantra. If you’ve thought about adding a mobile app to your business’s arsenal, you’re not alone. In fact, you’re in good company. Mobile apps seem to be ever-increasing in popularity, and continue to lay the foundation for novel business ideas - and even the way we do business.However, before you sign a contract with the first mobile app developer you can find, review these four mobile app development mistakes that will have your idea DOA.
1. Neglecting nuanced platform considerations
What platform should you launch your app on: iOS, Android, or Windows? While it might be tempting to leave this question to the pros in mobile app development, it may not be your wisest choice. The default development platform for most mobile app developers is iOS. This is primarily because of the widely-held belief that it will be easier to monetize through the Apple Store.While this may hold true for US mobile app users, there’s more to consider. Android users overtake iOS users on a global scale. So, if your app is not Droid-compatible, you are leaving a lot of money on the table.Monetization is just one consideration for app platform. Be sure to research further and make a list of pros and cons with your mobile app developers before you commit to any one platform.
2. Thinking of the mobile experience as a miniature web browser
First and foremost: mobile apps are fundamentally different from websites. Likewise, web developers and mobile app developers are not interchangeable. Each developer is a specialist with a particular set of skills.Mobile apps differ from websites on every front: size, functionality, and scope. It is difficult to overstate the importance of this difference. Apple frequently rejects apps when they don’t meet the criteria for sufficient app design.It is a common misconception that your mobile app should be able to do everything your company’s website does. This is not the case. Consider that your mobile application is valuable precisely because it is different from your website. Aim to fulfill the unique needs and preferences of some customers on your website, and others on your mobile app.
The following advantages should be considered in mobile app development:
They can be utilized outside the home or office, touch screens make apps more intuitive to navigate, and they are easily and infinitely malleable.However, it is unadvisable to create a mobile app just to say your company has one. It’s imperative that your app adds unique value that can’t be experienced on your website. Websites are becoming more user-friendly all the time with the desktop experience. Think about what qualities your business or product possesses that would translate well on an app.
3. Missing out on monetization
There are several go-to strategies for mobile app monetization, each with their own merits. There’s the subscription model, where users pay a monthly fee to enjoy your app, usually with the addition of some premium features. Then, there’s the outright purchase mechanism, where there’s a one-time fee to even download the app. Of course, monetization combinations often exist. For example, many apps cost money to purchase, with the addition of in-app upgrade opportunities - for a fee. Finally, you can make all attributes of your app entirely free, and rely on in-app advertising to make money.The good news is: you don’t have to decide the moment you start on mobile app development. Start thinking about the best way to make money with your app early in the development process. Discuss it with your developers so they can work towards your ideal path. Check out other apps in your market segment on sites such as AppAnnie and AppTrace to see what plays well with consumers.
4. Thinking your app will sell itself
Unfortunately, your mobile app development doesn’t include marketing. However, marketing is definitely something you’ll need to get the word out. Don’t wait for the last minute to think about the best way to spread the word about your mobile app. You only have one opportunity to launch. Make the most of it by working in tandem with your company’s marketing team. Consider tactics such as email marketing, Instagram posts building hype before launch, press releases, and a launch party.To drive home the importance of marketing your app, consider the following. When you publish an app in the Apple or Google Play stores, yours becomes a drop in the bucket. One drop out of literally thousands of competitors. Much like Google search results pages (SRPs), if your app gets lost past the first page or two, it is doomed to a life of obscurity.Avoid anonymity by working with your marketing team to define your audience and target consumer. While you’re in the process of mobile app development, ensure your developers are including valuable attributes that will serve the needs of this target group.Of course, there are many points to consider when it comes to developing a great mobile application. We hope this gives you a strong launch pad and the confidence to pursue the next steps in creating an app that will add tremendous value to your business and brand.Contact KitelyTech today to discuss the details of how we can add value to you and your online business.Phone: (800) 274 2908Email: info@kitelytech.comImage Credit :Pixabay.com
