If you know that your company, brand or business needs a mobile app, the next step is to ensure that its functionalities are optimal and that it meets the objectives set.. It is not only about the development of the application, but also about getting the user or your potential customer to download it and use it frequently.
Would you like to know the essential characteristics that a mobile application must meet, allowing you to achieve your business objectives? Stay to read this article, where we list everything you need to know, so that the development of your app is successful.
Top 10 features a mobile app must have
The strategy of a mobile application starts with the user experience (UX). As a priority, it must meet user expectations, with a simple, fast, updated interface that generates security and trust.
At EtyaLab, we face the development of mobile apps under the following criteria.:
1. Simple and intuitive interface
It is one of the most important aspects of development. The User Interface (UI) is the means through which we communicate with the user and the way in which the user relates to the application.. Whether it is for checkout, registration or whatever the functionality of the mobile application, it must be simple, but attractive.
It is important to bear in mind that the design and usability of the app must be adapted to all sizes and characteristics of mobile devices and tablets. If the handling of the application is complex, or does not meet expectations, it is more likely that the user will abandon the app and will not use it again.
2. Process response time
The performance of an application is also a key point for the user. The speed at which the app loads, positively or negatively influences the user experience (UX).. For this reason, it is essential that the application takes full advantage of the resources offered by mobile technology. This avoids unpleasant delays or crashes in the interface.
It is essential to use local data storage, background processes, georeferencing by fast approximation, among other factors that will ensure that the user has a positive experience, because if an app is too slow, the user will feel frustrated and will choose to abandon the process.
3. Constant updating of the app
Updating a mobile app is a necessity. An enterprise mobile application needs a continuous cycle of development and therefore, periodic readjustments. The most common reasons for upgrades are to fix bugs, improve performance, enhance the interface and include new features and design optimization.
Either for simple or complex bug fixes or to solve some bugs that appear sporadically. Updates are one of the improvements that the user will notice the most and that will increase the user experience (UX). This factor considerably reduces the abandonment rate of apps.
4. Adaptation to operating systems
If it is a public-oriented application, it is very important that it has a presence in at least two of the operating systems that dominate the market: iOS (Apple) and Android (Google). However, it should be noted that there are differences between operating systems, which affect the application development process.
Some of these programming differences are language and environment, as well as some visual aspects and UI (user interface) patterns, such as the menu, lists, headers, navigation buttons, among other aspects that must be taken into account for the optimal development of mobile applications for each operating system.
5. Geolocation
Depending on the business model, geolocation can be a key aspect for success. Through this functionality, not only can you gain knowledge about the user and their habits, but if the business is local, you will be able to impact a target audience very effectively.
By knowing the location of each user who uses the app, there is a greater ability to provide personalized offers, based on their location and interests. This exponentially increases the conversion rate.
6. Security and data protection
Providing protection and invulnerability is essential to ensure the smooth running of the application. It must provide a secure system for access, password reset, authentication, authorization, encryption, logging and security testing of applications.
The application log files provide a control with timestamps, it is necessary to test the security to ensure that all controls are working properly.Provide protection over data and user-supplied information. The app must store and communicate data securely.
7. Analytics and monitoring
Having a tracking system and usage statistics helps to know the real needs of the user to be able to adapt it to those needs and improve the app proactively.
Analytics is also vital to understand how the app works and to obtain information about how users make use of it.. This will allow you to make better decisions, identify the evolution of the app and optimize your productivity.
Tracking and analyzing usage statistics is important both for us developers and for the brand. The objective is to analyze performance and popularity.
8. Off-line operation of the application
Another important aspect when considering the use and functionality of a mobile application for your company or business is when the user has lost Internet connection. This may make accessing the app’s functionality impossible. For this reason, it is interesting that the app includes an offline operation.
This operation is achieved through the synchronization of information, which is loaded when the app is connected to the Internet, and shows the user the last information that was loaded when his device loses the Internet connection, i.e., it is not in real time, but it can allow access to certain functions.
The importance of developing applications with offline functionalities is focused on the satisfaction and loyalty of its users, since it provides a constant service or available at any time, achieving a differential value compared to the competition.
9. Integration
Enterprise mobile applications are part of a technology strategy, that is, they are not limited to their individual operation. They can be integrated with other platforms used by your business, for example, a logistics platform, or a reservation system, etc. This interoperability can be a feature highly valued by your users or customers and also beneficial to the operation of your business
It is also good to consider integrating the app into the marketing and communication strategy. Ensuring the support of all the tools available to the client for the creation, implementation, communication, maintenance and distribution of the application.
10. Customization
An app to sell, has to have a series of designs and a structure that facilitates the incorporation of products or services in a personalized catalog. As well as the image, language, order form, possibility of adding additional information, among other functionalities adapted to your business.
The development of the application must be flexible and adaptable to the corporate image of your business.. Therefore, it is vital that the development is tailored to your needs.
Conclusions
A mobile app can be developed with the most modern technologies, but if its design is not user-oriented, it will be a total failure. Do not overload the interface, prioritize the elements according to the central objectives, the size of the text and buttons, as well as adaptability are key. Your mobile app won’t be a success if it can’t meet your customers’ needs.
EtyaLab’s goal in software developmentis to understand the business needs and provide an accurate and suitable solution to the specific needs.. As well as creating a positive and friendly user experience for the user, so that they connect more with the platform and the company that is offering their product or service there.
We offer you our experience in custom mobile application development, and we invite you to schedule a free appointment with one of our developers, who will guide you in achieving your goals.
You can schedule an appointment through the web here or on Calendly here.
