Modern technology has grown over the years such that mobile platforms are dominating the landscape – and with them comes a new industry of mobile software trying to meet the demands of the consumer base.
New app developers are constantly entering the market in the hopes of creating the next big app for, but many of them fall into the same classic mistakes before they even get any considerable experience in the field.
Below are 15 of the most common mistakes made by mobile app developers:
1. Replicating Web Experiences
Simplicity is the key to making apps functional and appealing, but many developers try to match the scope of the website that accompanies the app. Mobile apps must be smaller both in size and scale if they are to be successful.
2. Neglecting Platform Strengths
Deciding on a platform can be a tough choice, but many developers do not take the proper considerations. Android apps are more popular throughout the world, but iOS apps are more popular in America.
3. Building Insecure Software
Mobile apps need the same level of protection from potential invaders as normal websites, but developers often neglect these aspects of mobile app design. To protect users, encryption and other safety measures are good options.
4. Ignoring ‘3-Click’ Rule
A good rule of thumb for app development is that functionality should have a limit of three clicks or less. Apps that require complicated keystrokes can discourage users from continually using the software.
5. Subpar User Experience
You might have developed an app with lots of functionality, but you can kiss it goodbye if it has a poor user experience. Apps should be both intuitive and engaging, regardless of their function. Focus groups and pre-release testing is the best way to optimize the user experience.
6. Neglecting Revenue Potential
Most app developers want their apps to earn money, but there are several ways to do so. Apps can require a fee to use, or they can use in-app purchases. Advertising is also an option for apps that should remain free. Be sure to incorporate appropriate monetization systems into your app.
7. Multiplatform Releases
It might seem like an innovative idea to release your app on multiple platforms at once, but it is much more appropriate to work on a single platform to begin with. You will learn from the response and feedback of the first platform where alterations will help in future iterations.
8. Inadequate Promotion
Apps have been invented for many purposes, so your app will have to stand out against the competitors if you want it to succeed. The best way to accomplish this is through targeted advertisement. This will let users know your app is the best option.
9. Ignoring Behavioral Preferences
Many app developers automatically assume that several default options will be acceptable, but not all users are the same. Apps need to be flexible in their controls so that users can customize their experience as much as possible.
10. Visibility Problems
Developers do not usually create apps outside in the bright sun, so they often forget about issues with visibility for their app. Many mobile apps are not easy to read on bright days, so take this into account when dealing with brightness and contrast.
11. Skipping Beta Tests
Some developers are so eager to get their app to market that they’ll skip crucial steps like beta testing. App developers should consider the feedback given to them after the initial completion of the app to make sure it is polished and ready for wide-scale use.
12. Ignoring Compatibility
Content designed for a large web platform will not be fully compatible with a mobile platform, and developers often miss this mark when trying to quickly consolidate content. Your content may need to be edited or reduced to properly work with mobile platforms.
13. Hiding Functions
App development is a tricky thing, and organizing an app that includes all the functions you want is even more difficult. Many developers sacrifice the ready availability of their app’s functions to include more options, but those functions are hard to find and might never be used.
14. Inadequate Text/Graphics
Some mobile apps are only available on smartphones because of the intense graphical requirements of the software, but that limits the potential audience to those who have such devices. Using simpler text and graphics opens utility to more users.
15. Unintuitive Navigation
Users enjoy being able to intuitively work through an app without getting lost, so solid navigation is vital. Some developers fail to meet this metric due to overcrowding features and functions within the app.
Want to keep learning? Learn about the 9 steps of the mobile app development lifecycle.