application development

Is Java Still Used For App Development?

/ nancyrubin

Knowledge of Java is something all developers and programmers are expected to have. However, when it comes to the world of modern web applications, you will notice that there is a lot of negativity surrounding Java. Many people prefer other platforms – such as Python, Grails, Groovy, RoR, Narf, Wibble, and such like. This is a surprise to many, especially when you consider Java’s overall popularity. You would certainly expect a greater number of individuals to use Java for the development of web applications.

It is pivotal to begin by highlighting the fact that there are of course individuals who still use Java to develop their web applications. It has not become completely irrelevant. The users are there, but many people would agree that there are not as many as would be expected. Why is this so?

After doing excessive research, it becomes evident that the general feeling is that Java has lost its magic touch. Business owners and developers deem it to be too slow and absent of enough creativity. However, there are expert programmers who stand by Java completely, and say their experiences with other applications don’t compare. So, where do these divergent viewpoints come from? Can Java have really gone so rapidly downhill?

It all comes down to the size and complexity of the application in question. It would appear that a lot of individuals choose to develop their application on a different platform yet once, and if, it is no longer scalable they migrate to Java. Why is this so? Well, modern-day start-ups need to hit the market as soon as they can. This proves to be somewhat difficult with Java. This is especially the case when you consider the unproductive development process. Other frameworks allow you to see code changes instantly, whereas you have to deploy them with Java.

Thus, Java often proves to be too complex for start-up companies and those who merely want to develop a small and simplistic application. It provides more than what is required for these web applications. This is why many start out on Wibble, Groovy or something similar, and then move to Java afterwards.

However, this does not render Java unneeded from the offset. It also shows that its strengths lie within the development of much larger web applications. This is why developers tend to use Java when they are creating products for banks, insurance companies, and alike. The reliability of Java will always shine through and appeal to all audiences, yet the complexity can alienate some. Firms like IntelligIS can advise on the best sort of program to use for development if you’re unsure. They can even handle your project for you.

To conclude, there is no denying that Java is undoubtedly still used in modern web application development. However, you will find that it is used more frequently when it comes to the larger, scalable and the more complex end of the web application spectrum. When individuals merely require a small and simplistic app, they tend to use other platforms. Yet, this does not mean they won’t migrate to Java in the future. Once their application grows, Java will become more beneficial in relation to their needs.

Apps All Business Owners Should Consider Using

/ nancyrubin

In this day and age everybody is using their phones or tablets to make their lives easier. Whether it’s sending a quick email on the way to work or simply keeping up with family members on Facebook, apps make it easier than ever to complete everyday tasks. The business world is actually greatly affected by apps these days too, and no matter what kind of industry you’re in, you can find the perfect app to help you run your business more smoothly. Take a look at these apps that all business owners should consider using and see if there’s any that could benefit your business!

Crowdfire

Anyone who is anyone is using social media as a way of promoting their business – and for good reason too. Social media can quickly and efficiently grow your business. The more followers and interaction that you gain from social media = better business. Crowdfire is an app that allows you to schedule posts to your social media accounts, saving you time and allowing you to get on with other tasks. The app can also help you grow your following too, so it’s definitely worth investing in the premium version of the app.

Greasebook

If you’re running a business that requires you to be in contact with drivers carrying highly sought after loads like gas and oil, it’s essential to be able to keep in contact with them at all times. Greasebook.com allows you to do exactly that, all while tracking tank levels and submitting gauge sheets. The perfect way of keeping in touch with your drivers and running your business as smoothly as possible.

Accompany

Accompany is an essential app for those that have to attend a plethora of business meetings. The app will send you a detailed email before your meetings entailing the subjects and other important information. The app works by using your microsoft and gmail accounts, as well as your social media accounts too so that it can pull up information about your contacts and prepare you for up and coming meetings.

Toggl

Ever find yourself losing track of time and spending too much time on one particular task? Hate keeping track of all of those timesheets and worrying about one becoming lost? Well, with Toggl you no longer have to worry about this! Track your time worked and also use it as a time management tool so that all tasks are completed!

Gusto

Finally, Gusto is a must-have app for any entrepreneur. Nobody likes bookkeeping and now you can access an app to help those boring and mind boggling financial tasks a breeze!

What apps can you use for your business? Are there any that you’d recommend for entrepreneurs looking to make their lives easier? Let us know below!

 

Does Your App Score Points with Consumers?

/ nancyrubin

Assuming you have a mobile business app, would you rate it a success up to now?

Many small businesses thinking of going the app route for one reason or another end up not doing it. As a result, they can be missing out on opportunities to sell their brand.

If you’ve decided to move forward with a mobile app, where will you begin?

Making Sure You Get Good Reviews

Whether only starting out with an app or you’ve had one around for a while now, you want to make sure it gets good reviews.

With that in mind, know that there are companies out there whose sole job is to review business apps on a daily basis. As such, you’d want to get a good review, correct?

Whether getting a Bismanonline app review or from other companies, here’s why good ones are key:

  1. Brand notoriety – While you never want to stand out for the wrong reason, notoriety for the right ones is big. That said a strong mobile app game is important for your brands success. Having that recognition can not only help you keep business, but also land new customers.
  2. Customer experience – Good reviews help build a better customer experience. If a consumer has your app at or near the top of their phone, there’s a good chance you’re going to do regular business. Although many still shop online via desktop or laptop computers, more go the mobile route. As such, you want to make sure they have the best customer experience possible each time out.
  3. Socialize the process – With a mobile app, make sure your business is as social as can be. Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and other such sites are important to promoting your brand. Your app can offer relevant industry content, coupons, and of course consumer feedback. With a solid social media game on your app, reviewers will be apt to give you the thumbs up.
  4. Staying ahead – Last, you want positive reviews to stay ahead of the competition. Remember, most competitors will always be looking for ways to upstage you. As a result, you can’t assume they are not investing much time and money into their apps. The chances are they have in fact been investing time and dollars towards their apps (see more below).

Did You Design the Best Possible App?

Whether you did your mobile app in-house or reached out for help, did you come up with a good one?

In the event you are not happy with the current app for your small business, don’t settle for mediocrity.

Take the time and money if necessary to do better. When you do, your mobile app should garner more interest from consumers.

Last, don’t be afraid to see what competitors have done with their apps.

Never copy them down to the last detail. That said don’t be afraid to look at their ideas and how you could put in place one or more in your own manner.

If your app is not scoring points with consumers, it is time to restart the game.

About the Author: Dave Thomas writes about business topics on the web.

 

 

Top 3 Questions To Consider Before Developing a Social Networking App

/ nancyrubin

The exact costs of building a social app can’t be estimated out of the blue. There are lots of factors influencing the cost of mobile apps. We’re going to shed light on what goes into building a social networking app.

Everyone knows the likes of Vine, Instagram, and Snapchat, right? Great, let’s delve into a development process to understand what goes into an app and makes up the costs.

The Basics

Before you start requesting for a custom app quote, read more on how to develop a social media app. Then you have to visualize your app idea. Making it simple – outline the basic features of your future app.

Here you can find the main questions to answer before developing an app:

Question #1: What’s your target market?

It’s a well-known fact that understanding the fundamental needs of your target user and satisfying them is a key to an app’s success.

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Here’s an example how the understanding of the target market leads to the unbelievable app’s success.

As lots of parents flocked to Facebook, teens were urged to shift a social network while they wanted more anonymity and more space for expressing themselves. And that’s what Snapchat promised with its disappearing messages.

And a few words about Instagram. A vast majority of people don’t fancy how the photo sharing works on Facebook. And this was the premises for the development of Instagram, a handy platform for photo sharing.

Find out the common needs as well as frustrations of your target audience to develop an app that will win over the others.

Once, you know your end user, and what paint the app is going to solve, it’s time to use a user-story approach to estimate the ballpark costs. And what is a user-story based approach? User stories are short summaries of what a user expects from an app and what it needs to do.

For example, as a user, I’d like to send instant messages and share photos. Isn’t it simple? With a thorough market research, you can quickly identify what your users are and what they need.

Question #2 What platforms to develop for?

It’s the most frequently-asked question when it comes to an app development. There is a vast number of mobile operating systems to reach – iOS, Android, Windows, etc. But what platform to pursue first?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Just conduct a market research to find out a priority platform.

Nowadays, it’s beneficial to develop a mobile and web social networking app. But being fair, the iOS apps are released earlier.

And there are a couple of obvious reasons. The iOS apps take less time when compared with Android or Web-based mobile apps. And less time means less money.

Note, the main thing to consider is that a mobile platform you choose should match the preferences of your target audience. It’s no use in developing an Android app for Northern America since the iOS prevails in Northern America and Western Europe. And Android takes the rest of the world.

Question #3 What main features to integrate?

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In fact, all social apps have lots of features in common while they deliver quite the same functions.

●      Registration

Consider, allowing the registration via existing social media profiles.

The key reasons to integrate registration through social media profiles:

  • A seamless registration process
  • A quick and fast adoption thanks to the existing social connections

Registration with social media accounts will allow new users to import profile data from their existing profiles. Thus the users don’t need to spend long hours filling in the profile. In addition, fewer steps mean faster adoption for new users.

●      Self-Expression Tools

To create a social app that catches everyone attention, your app should stay addictive and excite your users.

What cool features to implement to wow the users just off the bat?

  • Augmented reality
  • Live streaming
  • Self-destructing messages

These are big features that can make your app stand out from the crowd. But there are a great many of small features that count more for app’s success. Provide the users with the possibility to create personal profiles.

●      Newsfeed

Social networks where nothing happens cause no fun.

When the users are eager to check the app as frequently as possible, your app gets more popularity. Push and notification strategy can help you create a great user retention mechanism.

How to make a stunning newsfeed?

  • Integrate different types of updates (text, photo, video, etc.)
  • Deliver a powerful content and filter duplicate entries
  • Provide the ways to interact with the newsfeed content (like, comment, share, etc.)
  • Develop the men to report inappropriate content

These are the essential features to develop first when it comes to a social networking app. Of course, you will need to add a secret sauce to win over the existing apps.

 

Short Bio

Hi, everyone! I’m Helen Morrice I try hard to explain geek news in a plain (and readable) language. Here you can read one of my coverages on the mobile app development. To read more, visit my blog or follow me on Facebook/Twitter

Appy Days: The Undeniable Benefits Of Launching An App

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appy

Photo:

Smartphone and tablet devices have revolutionized the way we interact with technology. Subsequently, Apps have become one of the modern phenomenons to influence the world of business. Quite frankly, if you’ve yet to launch one for your company, you’re missing out.

Successful business Apps offer many rewards to modern businesses. Here’s why yours could become the greatest weapon in your arsenal in the battle for supremacy.

Reach New Audiences

The best thing about digital marketing is that it offers you a shot at reaching global audiences instantly. You’ve already designed a killer website to provide a great starting platform. However, adding an App to your list of products could be another great way to show the versatility of your brand.

Any tool that can increase exposure, especially to those that wouldn’t know about your business through other means can only be a good thing. In truth, it should be the only motivation you need, although there are plenty of other incentives too.

Encourage Increased Interaction

Statistics show that there has been a huge shift towards mobile internet usage in recent years. In fact, clients now spend just as much time on those screens as they do on their computers. This creates a huge opportunity to gain increased interaction from the customers. An App is easily the best way to embrace those sentiments.

Once a customer has downloaded your App, it can be accessed with the click of a button. This in itself should encourage frequent use. For a comprehensive experience, you could create additional incentives to use Apps, social media, and web browsers in unity. Essentially, it’s just another way to create that stronger overall product.

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Photo:

Build A Bigger Reputation

Customer perceptions can be influenced very easily. A strong SEO presence or big social media following can make the business appear bigger and more experienced. Guess what? An App offers further indication to the quality of your company too.

This will only be possible when the App works faultlessly, though. Use the list of Java profilers to monitor performance at all times. By keeping on top of the potential issues, you’ll ensure that the App continues to enhance the image of the product and the brand.

Direct Marketing Opportunities

The increased familiarity gained from encouraging customers to download your App is fantastic. However, if that isn’t enough of an incentive, the chance to promote specific products will be.

Coding your App so that it promotes those specific products is easy. Whether it’s through adverts or push notifications, it can go a long way to influencing the client. Use a blog post to further promote that product, and conversion rates should soar.

Stay On Trend

There’s no doubt that an App can help grow your audience. Then again, it’s equally to think about the growing demands of your existing clients. They will expect to see more from your company as it grows, and this is a great way to show that you are still on trend.

Link the App to social media to encourage greater participation too, and the customer experience will feel greater than ever. Even if the App isn’t directly connected to the products or services you produce, it will boost your long-term revenue.

 

Website Load Times: Why Slow Speeds Are Hindering Your Success

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Image By Pixabay

Do you remember the days of dial-up internet? We’d sit there and wait for what seemed like an age for websites to load. In actuality, it wasn’t all that long. However, we’ve become used to content being available in an instant. In fact, if we’re waiting longer than a few seconds nowadays, we’ll often give up and click somewhere else.

Now, take that information and think how it could relate to your business website. Are you losing sales because it’s so slow to load? Are lucrative clients clicking away because they can’t get the information they need quickly enough? It’s easy to gloss over, but slow loading websites are a huge hindrance for businesses across the world.

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Image By Pexels

The thing is: a well-optimized site has plenty more benefits than basic satisfaction for the potential customer. By getting the basics right, you’re opening up more possibilities in terms of techniques like SEO. Backlinks, as explained at https://www.gotchseo.com/backlinks/ can be particularly beneficial to boost your SEO strategy. However, if your website takes an age to load, you’ll actually be doing more harm than good. Eventually, that SEO strategy will keel over and die. Then, it’s wasted money down the drain.

There are help sources available to you. Arguably the most well-known of these is Google’s PageSpeed tool. This is a tool that uses insights to measure load times and identify the issues relating to them. If you’re not technically minded, the tool might not make all that much sense to you. However, if you are, you can find it at https://developers.google.com/speed/pagespeed/.

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Image By Public Domain Pictures

So, we’ve mentioned the importance of fast load times, but what can you do to ensure you get them? There are a few basic tips that we’re going to mention today to get you started. If you’re still having problems after implementing them, you might need to seek more expert advice. Let’s take a brief look.

  • It all starts with your website hosting provider. If you’re using an unreputable host that can’t handle the demands of your site, it won’t load quickly. You might even find that it suffers from downtime on a regular basis, which is damaging. It might be worth considering a new host.
  • Another problem you might face is filling your website with an abundance of images. This can be an issue for multiple reasons. First, it means that your website has to work harder to load the images you want to use. Also, you might not be optimizing those images effectively, resulting in a large file size. In programs like Photoshop, as found at adobe.com/Photoshop, web-specific images can be created.
  • Finally, think about the content management systems you’re using. In the case of something like WordPress, you might find that a plugin is slowing it all down. To rectify this, you’ll need to carry out some trial and error procedures.

Make no mistake: slow load times will hinder your website’s progress. Make sure you don’t suffer from them.

 

 

Add up the Advantages of iPad Apps

/ nancyrubin

ipad_appsThese days it’s not unusual to see a cart full of iPad’s in a classroom in any given school. It’s also becoming common practice for employers to give their employees an iPad to use for work.

Why is this becoming such a c common theme?

Basically, an iPad has some incredible uses – its apps are becoming increasingly useful and beneficial to students and adults alike.

How Do Students Benefit from iPads in the Classroom?

It’s not just a luxury to work from an iPad in a classroom anymore; it’s becoming more and more essential.

From writing prompts to geography to math apps, students can really benefit from the use of iPads and apps.

Math

In the math classroom, iPad’s are increasingly useful.

Take a look at these 5 Benefits of iPad Math Apps:

  • Increased speed and fluency – By taking timed quizzes, kids can increase speed and fluency with basic math computation.
  • View tutorials when kids are stuck – Some kids just need a bit more or a bit different explanation. Through apps and tutorials, they can learn different math strategies to increase understanding.
  • Work the process, not just find the answer – With apps, the process can be more easily understood. Deeper learning comes from not just finding the answer, but finding the process.
  • Graphing – Students can turn data into graphs and see how that works. From creating the graph themselves to plugging in information and having a graph appear in front of them, it all increases learning and understanding.
  • Games – Kids often learn through games. With some math apps taking the form of video games, interest is increased, therefore learning is, too.

Other Subjects

  • Apps are great for testing geography knowledge through quizzes and improved presentations.
  • Science benefits through data graphing and watching experiments.
  • Apps help with writing through prompts, word counts, editing tools and spell check.

Business

What about in the business world? How are iPads helping adults at work?

With the ease and portability of iPads, they are becoming an essential tool in the workplace. Here are some ways…

  • Presentations and graphs – iPads offer a great visual addition to presenting information to customers or colleagues.
  • Conferencing – With apps, iPads become great tools for video conferencing which can help you be more efficient at work. Meetings can still be face to face, but no one has to go anywhere or use up any extra time.
  • Keeping expenses and other data – With different apps, employees can easily track expenses and other data. Information is all in one place and easily accessible on an iPad.

With the cost of iPads becoming more reasonable, and more schools are funding them through foundations and private donors, iPads in school and at work are becoming a common tool.

They provide great benefits and offer much more than photo booth and candy crush!

About the Author: Heather Legg is an independent writer who covers topics related to social media, education and small business.