Apps |

August 11, 2016

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Mobile App Development Tips

Want to develop mobile apps? These are the things that you need to pay close attention to that will ensure you do so successfully.

1. It is critical to pay close attention to the idea of responsive design

When designing a mobile app’s User Interface, you need to remember that your app needs to be fully usable on a broad range of mobile operating systems and devices.  Whether it is making tweaks to the CSS, JavaScript or media queries, there needs to be special attention paid to handling issues that are related to the app being displayed on different mobile devices. Ensuring you are up to date with the latest developments is important as this infographic from Amsource Technology shows.

2. Iterative user interface designs are a significant benefit.

It is a great idea as an app creator to iterate your interface design options in order to create apps that retain the targeted user’s attention and are fully engaging.  Keep in mind, valuable lessons can be learned with every successive iteration and may be re-applied to the next design project that you work on as well.

3. UI design needs must be taken into account for security and 508-compliance issues.

Usually, 508 compliance for accessibility and security issues are accounted for during a later stage of the mobile app development process, which results in project execution time being longer.  It is essential for UI designing professionals to consult with middleware experts and the back-end team to make sure the correct set of data is used and in the manner that is most appropriate. Effective UI design includes a special emphasis being placed on reducing the app user’s learning curve.  That will result in a significant increase in the overall productivity of the app user.

4. Having a good UI attracts the end user while keeping things simple.

These days, most clients misinterpret the saying “keeping things simple” with designing a user interface with a minimalist style.  However, that isn’t what this phrase really means.  What “keeping things simple” is referring to is the phenomenon where an app’s first-time user is able to open and start it without needing to go through any detailed guide or instructions.  A basic user interface, in other words, allows a user to only have to use a couple of simple steps to perform multiple actions.  For example, when colors are used effectively, it allows your app interface to be as simple as possible.  That will encourage users to download their app and use it regularly.

5. Get real users involved while you are evaluating the UI design of your mobile app      

For UI designers, it can be very beneficial to get real users involved whenever you are evaluating various UI design ideas.  When this is done during the early development stages it will help to reduce the chances of there being any confusion over which features to include and which ones to let go.  It will help to eliminate the need for re-working and will save the project money and time.

6. It always helps to keep your mobile UI graphical

It is definitely true that when your mobile app has an enticing feel and look to it, it will always be preferred over apps with designs that are more text heavy.  Whether it involves keeping users engaged or encouraging them to return to use your app on a regular basis, a good-looking UI will effectively do the job for you.  Incorporating rich visual controls effectively will inform the user as to how she or he can interact with your app.

 

Apps, Mobile |

July 13, 2016

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5 Tips for Developing a Mobile App that Users will Love

 

The world is going mobile

According to Global Web Index, 80% of internet users own a smartphone and all of them have at least 3 apps downloaded on their smart phones.

Mobile technology is not a nice-to have option for businesses anymore, it’s mandatory.

Today’s business is moving beyond mobile-friendly versions and you need something more engaging and appealing to add to your mobile application development.

Here are 5 tips to create a great mobile app that your users will fall in love with.

1. Strategy

It’s important to mention the idea of an app is not a strategy. Start by defining what you’re hoping to achieve with this mobile app (to increase revenue, improve customer experience or make employees more productive).

2. Make your costumer come back

An app that users will love is an app that will keep them engaged, even after the user has downloaded it.

Most of the apps out there are installed, looked at once and then deleted. You need to give your customer a reason to come back.

In order to keep your users engaged, you can use push notification messaging within your app to do just that.

3. Interface and User experience

The first thing that users will see is the interface of the app. Make it user-friendly!

From the screen resolution to colors, themes and buttons, these functions play a key role in how users engage the app. Nobody wants an app that’s difficult to navigate. Keep it user friendly and easy to use.

4. Testing is key

Always test your app before you release it!

Testing your app is priority! In this process, you can discover bugs and repair it before the app is released to the world.

App testing will save you time, money and effort short-term and long-term. Remember, apps are a great way to build your brand, but you don’t want an app released with issues. Always test your app.

5. The app must solve a problem

There’s literally hundreds of thousands of apps on the market, a majority of them are never used. If you want to see success with your app, it has to be useful, helpful or informative. The success of your app will depend on how users “value” it.

The key to success is to have an app that delivers useful benefits to the end user. Users also appreciate an app that’s updated regularly with new features or functionality.

Mobile apps are getting better, faster and time spent on mobile technology continues to grow. If you can follow these 5 tips, your app is going to have a great chance to be successful.