With more of today’s customers choosing to do business through a mobile device, developing an app is no longer a concern that businesses can afford to overlook. When planning to launch a for-profit app, it pays to know more about the most common mistakes, pitfalls and other obstacles that may crop up. Success is not always a guarantee and even a minor mistake could find your new app off to a shaky start.
Not Offering a Free Version
Users are often very cautious with their money, especially when it comes to paying for a new app that lacks an established user base or that may only have a handful of reviews. Providing a free version alongside your paid app can often be the best approach to take. A risk-free way to try out an app can help pique the interest of those who may be willing to pay top dollar to unlock key features.
Failing to Set Up In-App Purchases
Setting up in-app purchasing is an absolutely vital concern, especially if you are banking on the revenue created by your new app to help cover development costs. More convenient ways to handle the transaction means that users are far more likely to make a purchase. Even a huge user base may not be able to benefit sales figures in the event that your app does not support purchasing and financial transactions.
Ineffective Marketing
The best app design and the latest features are of no benefit should you fail to interest potential users. The app store is filled with countless promising apps that f ailed simply because their developers didn’t get the word out. When it comes to leveraging a promotion campaign through use of the best practices crowdfunding, advanced ordering and other promotional tools can help to generate some much-needed buzz. Not only will you want to crowdfund your project correctly, but want to make sure that you have a connection with your audience that can continue to grow strategically from ideation to app launch.
Poor App Design
No one likes a poorly designed app. A rushed effort, broken app or applications that suffer from clunky navigation or other design issues can actually do damage to a business’s brand. Releasing an app that is so bad customers may end up taking their business elsewhere can be a major liability.
Mobile applications are fast becoming the perfected point-of-contact for purchases and other business transactions. While a paid app can turn into a real cash cow, mistakes made during the development process may have lasting repercussions. Taking extra care to ensure a successful launch is always worth the extra time, effort or expense that may be involved.
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.
