If you’re trying to turn your application idea into a reality, you’ve most likely looked into the capabilities that mobile app development and custom software development have to offer. After you hire a UX designer for UI/UX expertise, what should you focus on? How do you even get feet underneath your concept in the first place? Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions beginners have when it comes to mobile app development and making their software accessible.
Where Should I Begin Mobile App Development?
Like other custom software development projects, mobile app development should start with plenty of market research. The goal of your market research is to identify any gaps within the market. What are your competitors lacking? How can you implement this into your app? As a good rule of thumb, you should ask yourself a series of questions:
- Who are my top competitors?
- What are my top competitors’ strategies?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of their applications?
- How is the market responding to their product?
- What sets their product apart from the rest?
You should take the time to answer these questions not only for your competition, but for yourself, too. Identifying the answers to these questions will help you be more informed and prepared when it comes to hiring a UX designer for competitive UI/UX work.
Why Does UI/UX Matter for Mobile App Development?
Speaking of good foundations for the best UI/UX possible, why should you care about it when it comes to developing a mobile app? Truthfully, the design work that you hire a UX designer for could make or break the success of your application. In the rapidly evolving digital space that we exist in, consumers need more than another good idea. It needs to be well executed, too. When it comes to an application, this means taking the time to understand what a user expects out of the interface itself and the feelings they get during their initial experience.
If your application is difficult to use, doesn’t make much sense design-wise, or leaves them feeling confused or frustrated…chances are, you won’t have many returning users. Of course, you can fix minor issues after launch via software updates. These updates shouldn’t include anything fundamental though, which is why getting as much of the UI/UX right during initial launch is so important.
When you hire a UX designer, you’re bringing an expert opinion into the space. They’ll be able to take the lead when it comes to navigating industry standards and consumer preferences within your application’s niche. It’s worth the time, energy, and investment to be sure your users are satisfied with the execution of your idea. This way, you’ll have a higher success rate and begin growth with your consumer retention.
Should My Application Be Native, Hybrid, or Web-Based?
This question encompasses perhaps one of the most important technical decisions you’ll have to make about your mobile app development. This is mostly due to the implications your decision will have on custom software development choices you’ll have to make later on down the line, including future maintenance. Let’s review the key differences between the 3 types of applications:
- Native applications are best when it comes to anything with heavy photo/video presence and is the best choice when it comes to heavy-duty apps, such as gaming. They are the most expensive to develop, but they’re cross-platform (available across multiple app stores).
- Web-based applications are suitable for easy updating and situations that do not warrant access to an individual’s device/its native abilities. They’re quicker to develop and, as such, less expensive. Unfortunately, this comes with its own set of sacrifices. Users will not be able to download these apps onto their devices, regardless of the app store they use.
- Hybrid applications are a comfortable in-between of native and web-based. Hybrid apps recycle their code for both platforms, have the ability to access a device’s native features, and can exist across multiple app stores. Typically, this type of application is the best choice when it comes to any app focused on enterprise use, productivity, or utility.
Where Does Monetization Come In?
After you’ve invested the resources into your mobile app development, it makes sense that you’ll wonder when you’ll see a return. Again, this is another key feature that should be planned out prior to building the application (but it can be adjusted post-launch, of course). There are several models to follow if you want to monetize your efforts:
- Sponsorships. Often the choice for more established applications, this model means relying on partnerships with businesses, brands, and advertising for a paycheck.
- Subscriptions. Users will pay a recurring fee to gain access to the application.
- Freemium. This model allows people to download the application for free, but keeps certain features (premium) locked unless they are purchased.
- Paid (premium). In order to download the application, users must pay an up-front fee. This type of model may be combined with other models, too.
- In-app ads. There is no initial cost to download the app, however, users will encounter ads throughout their experience in the application. This may be combined with other models, or an option to disable ads by paying a fee. When using this model, take special care not to negatively impact the user experience.
- In-app purchases. This model allows users to make purchases within the application itself.
Start Your Next Mobile App Development Project
Need some help figuring out where to begin your next project? The 245TECH team hosts a variety of experienced industry professionals who can help get the ball rolling on your next big idea. Reach out today at (865) 465-4040 or contact us directly through our website.
