6 Common Mistakes in Developing and Marketing an App
1. Choosing the wrong development methodology
Before starting the development process you will have to figure out whether you want to go native or hybrid. Native apps and hybrid apps: they both have advantages and disadvantages but you will have to pick which benefit you will use for your company. Native apps may cost you more, but they will ensure a better user experience, while hybrid apps are quicker and allow the same cool experience on all platforms. In order to make sure you make the right choice, ask yourself 3 basic questions: •What’s your budget? •How long you expect to develop your app? •What level of user experience you expect the app to have? Once you answer these questions, you are ready to go on with the development process.
2. Choosing the wrong platform
It goes without saying that iOS and Android are the most popular mobile operating systems around the globe. Apple users are more likely to spend money on applications. Android users tend to use free apps and are not willing to buy anything from the Google Play Store or make any in-app purchases. Statistically, iOS is more popular in the US. Android however is more popular in other regions. So, depending on your target audience, you should choose where you want to build your app. Otherwise, you will lose potential clients.
3. Adding too many features
While developing an app, more features may sound like a good idea, but this is just another common misconception, a mistake that often leads to a failure of the app. First, adding too many features will result in a slow app, which nobody likes. Second, mobile users appreciate simple experiences rather than complicated ones with plenty of features. And finally, if you add too many features, the design will have to suffer. Since the space on the phone and tablet screens is limited, you have to make sure you keep the design clean and simple. What you should do instead is focus on a few functions of the app that will ensure the satisfaction of your users and improve these features, rather than start looking to add more.
4. Skipping the testing stage
Many developers hurry to bring the app development process to its end and ignore the importance of testing, which is when you’re supposed to find loopholes that will lead to a mobile app failure. It is important to understand that the testing stage is not something that should be overlooked. A developer should make sure that all features and functionalities are tested and that the desired result is achieved.
5. Not having a marketing plan for the app
Solely publishing the app on the app store doesn’t guarantee an increased number of downloads. If you want your app to be successful and known among your target audience, you will have to make sure you benefit from web presences to promote your app. Even though your website page shouldn’t be an overwhelming advertisement for your mobile app, when your customers visit your website, they should know that there’s an optimized mobile app available as well. If you already have a web presence, make sure you use all of your channels for communication to let your customers know about your app. Also, don’t forget about the importance of having the right keywords picked, the right title and description. A consistent ASO research will make your app easier to be found and therefore it will yield a considerable boost in the number of downloads. Another important thing that affects the success of your app is the reviews. Try to make sure that they reflect a positive image of your app, which will convince other customers to download your app.
6.The Retention Mistake
The number one problem in the mobile app ecosystem is retention and failing to engage the customer. People return to your app because it has ongoing value for them. You can generate reasons to engage, like exclusive content or benefits for your customers (discounts, rewards, content packs, etc.) available only through the mobile app. This offers you a great opportunity to stay connected with your customers and engage them and your users will get more value from your app, lowering chances that they will leave your service for another.