At a time when smartphones have penetrated our life to unprecedented levels, mobile applications (apps) have turned out to be the main attraction as a result of their utility. These apps are one of the contributing factors to the success of smartphones.
The number of smartphone users has reached about 1 billion worldwide and mobile apps are preferred over mobile browsing. The average US mobile user spends approximately 2 hours 42 minutes browsing on their smartphone and 86% of this time is spent using mobile apps.
Clearly, mobile apps are the wave of the future with assured public attention and potential success. As a result of this realization, many companies have started developing apps. However, the crucial test lies in the ability to convert the app idea into winning mobile app, which takes an enormous effort and superb craftsmanship.
Below, we present some of the best tips for converting your app idea into a mobile app.
Idea and specification:
Ideas are like opinions, everybody has one. What matters is the implementation of those ideas. The first step is to write down all of your ideas in as much detail as possible. Next, the idea has to be validated from the perspective of its novelty, feasibility, and level of utility. Ideas which lack novelty lead to applications that are similar to those already in the market. Those ideas lacking a high level of utility, despite being loaded with the best potential features, will ultimately fail because the users won’t find them useful enough. Ideas lacking in feasibility will falter during their market performance stage. This is why it is important to avoid these types of ideas. Doing so will save resources in the form of time and money. Once the idea, the major function of the proposed application, is finalized, one can move on to deciding its specifications and features.
Mark the market:
Once an idea is finalized and the specifications are decided, the next step is to survey the market. The market survey is essential as it will provide us with an idea regarding the supply and demand for the functionality of the application as well as the competition and strategies employed by them. It also provides us with input regarding our application’s similarity to other ones available in the market. Changes could still be made to the idea and its specifications based on the results of the market surveys. At times, market research can also help businesses set the launch deadline for a new app, which could alter the fate of the app.
Development and testing:
Once the developers begin creating the mobile app, the next step is to freeze its desired specifications and features. It is recommended that developers are chosen who will follow a fixed timeline and deliver on it. Constant feedback and input must be shared between the app owner and the design team in order to ensure visibility and avoid pitfalls based on the various operating systems. The team must ensure that the app matches the owner’s desired specifications. Once the pilot app is ready, it should be launched as a test version within the market. This serves the dual purpose of alerting the developers of any flaws in the app and prospective enhancements as well as creating market awareness for the app. This market buzz is something that will serve the app well during its launch and keep it in front of the public’s eyes during the time it’s being developed.
Marketing, feedback, and improvements:
It is essential to launch the product in a manner that ensures it receives the maximum amount of public awareness. Various marketing strategies, like that of the early-bird benefits or first come first serve, may be implemented in order to generate an interest for the app amongst the potential users. While having an established brand image will help this product during its launch, it also serves as a great opportunity to unveil a new brand, which satisfies the target audience by its demeanor, way of operation or financial schemes. Social networking sites provide greater awareness as to the new app and reviews from reputable sources can be reserved if finances allow for it.
The final step for any mobile phone app is its launch in the app stores and the associated marketing campaign. Pew Internet stated
- Social networking sites are highly popular amongst users, which are reflected by the fact that 74% of all adult mobile users rated Facebook as their favorite app, while YouTube, Instagram, Facebook Messenger and Twitter were selected by 49.7%, 29.3%, 26.7% and 20.4% of these users, respectively.
- The Google Play Store, Gmail, and several search engines are featured in the top 10 popular app’s list with 50.9%, 48.3% , 41.6% votes, respectively.
- These observations suggest that social networking sites can be great avenues for marketing new apps collecting feedback and reviews and establishing mobile app updates.
- Search engine optimization ensures that apps have better visibility on search engines as well as in the app stores.
When launching a new app, it is imperative to collect data and apply user feedback. This system should be built into the app so that it automatically collects, records and reverts back to the appropriate customer. Regular updates and redesigns are a must in order to keep the app en-vogue. Care should be taken when designing the app so that changes are easy to introduce without affecting the app’s performance along with various platforms.
Summary:
Mobile phone app development, if carried out properly, can provide a great source of revenue to a business segment which provides better opportunities to consumer segments. Various factors such as operating systems, targeted devices, and geographical locations affect the app development process; therefore, proper planning and implementation are required. The field is ever-expanding with a significant potential for financial gain.