If You Build It, Will They Come? 7 Tips to Create a Successful Mobile App

It doesn’t matter if you’re bootstrapping an app, or spending hundreds of thousands to build one, the big question is the same – will people actually use it? According to research from Localytics, 80% of apps across all industries are not used after 3 months. So, why are so many apps built without data to support their use-case? Having a great idea is easy. Turning a brilliant idea into an app that people actually use is very hard. There are some very talented agencies that will build whatever you want, but only the right data will tell you whether your app will be used.

Here are some pointers to increase your odds of success:

1) Solve a problem

Start with a clear understanding on the one thing your app is going to do and why people need it. Keep it simple. The emphasis is on the “one” thing – focus on the core problem, not many problems. Then, test your value proposition.

2) Market research

Take a look at what’s worked or failed in the past in your app space; avoid mistakes and adopt best practices. Look at reviews of apps similar to yours and try to see patterns in what people love or hate. More importantly, can you define the gray area where things are just lukewarm? Boredom is the kiss-of-death for app retention.

3) Borrow from success

Many factors go into a successful app. What works for one app may or may not work for yours, but will help you understand best practices.

4) Customer targeting

The better you know your target audience, the more likely you’ll know how to build something they want. You need to identify the group of people most likely to love your app – your die-hard fans. Collect as much information you can to create a user persona. Let’s say your target market is “millennials” – scroll deeper to define which gender, education level, race, demographic, region. Then hone this further – which apps do they use regularly? Are they on a Facebook Group or other social group you can join? The closer you can get to your customers the better you’ll be able to build something for them.

5) Positioning

Explain what your app does and why it’s unique as briefly as possible. This will go a long way in helping you get above the noise.

6) Create a marketing plan

This will provide a road map on how you’re going to reach, convert and sell your audience.

7) Adapt

The market will inevitably change in the next 3-6 months. You need to keep aware of what’s happening with your vertical and competitors.

My advice is to gather as much knowledge as you can in advance of your launch. A successful app requires luck. Luck favors the prepared. If you still have questions, contact mobile app development company, Appstem today.