There are three key ingredients to make a successful mobile app: The product, the market, and the types of users. For the best outcome, all three must work well together. Set yourself up for success by considering these three areas and creating a strategic plan.
To create a successful mobile app, it is vital to follow the steps mentioned below:
Select the audience for your mobile app:
Start by identifying your users. It is essential to determine who is going to use the app. Understanding your audience allows you to design an interface that will engage users. It also helps when determining position in the marketplace and executing marketing campaigns.
Offer value:
If your app doesn’t offer value, if it doesn’t solve a problem or deliver a strong benefit, users are much less likely to use the app or get really excited about it. The most popular apps make life easier, offer fun or entertainment, or give you access to something you wouldn’t otherwise have. The benefit to the users must be clear to them from first use.
Designing the mobile app:
Design and user interface are crucial to the success of your app. The app has to look, and function like your audience expects it to. With so much competition and so many apps offering the same thing, yours has to be easy to use and not radically different than what has already been accepted by the market. You can, however, add new features. Your audience needs to relate to the look, feel, and usage of the app. It should be intuitive and never a source of frustration.
Identify the right approach for your app:
Knowing your audience will also help you determine on what platforms you want to offer your app.
A native app for mobile devices is the most popular and typically requires a lot of development time. You need to decide if you want to develop for Android and Apple. Most apps are available in both.
Web apps are also important, as many users want an app rather than browser-based programs when they are working on their computers. These apps are typically cheaper to develop and can be created and brought to market quicker. Think of Slack and Evernote as examples of desktop apps.
Create a prototype:
Start with a prototype – this aids in visualizing your idea and determining what will and won’t work. With a prototype, you can also invite investors to preview the app, see your vision. Attracting investors is easier with a prototype to show how the application works.
Integrate Analytics:
Using an analytics tool gives you insight into key metrics on app users and usage. Track metrics and use that data to improve your apps and marketing efforts. Some of the most popular Analytics tools are Google Analytics, Firebase, Mix panel, and many more.
Beta Test:
Through beta testing, you get feedback on your app that will help work out bugs and enhance features. Your beta testers should be the same users, to which you will market the app. They should be given full access and asked not only for their comments and feedback but also to be given a series of specific questions to answer. You want to ensure you get as much information from this phase as you possibly can.
Launch the app:
Generating some excitement pre-launch will help make your launch more successful. Take advantage of all relevant platforms for marketing and advertising your app. Be sure to focus your efforts and messaging on your intended audience. You may broaden your reach over time, but your best bet is to start with a laser focus. Stay on top of your analytics and learn what you can from the data. Be responsive to any inquiries and requests, and stay on top of social chatter.
Upgrades:
Upgrade as required to add new features, fix bugs, and stay current with operating system changes.
Market the app wisely:
Use push notifications to keep users updated and engaged. Ask for reviews. App sales is a very competitive space – you will need to use every tool in your arsenal to stand out in the app store. Look for partners, influencers, and joint ventures to help promote your app. Get written up in relevant industry publications. Get creative and take a growth hacking approach to your marketing.
