The path to the app that Switzerland needs
Over 250,000 apps are available for download in the Apple App Store alone; to date, a total of over 5 billion apps have been downloaded. These figures whet the appetite of marketing and advertising managers for an app. But how can this appetite be successfully satisfied?
The fact that around 95% of apps are hardly downloaded or not downloaded at all should not dampen enthusiasm, but rather encourage a realistic market assessment and considered action. As there are no download guarantees, there are some important points to consider and stumbling blocks to avoid when developing an app.
It is important that the app focuses on one functionality and thus offers the user added value or a quick solution to a problem. As listing in the Apple App Store is not guaranteed, it is advisable to take Apple's specifications into account when developing ideas.
The most important work comes after brainstorming: functions and interaction paths need to be defined and recorded down to the last detail. This work must include the promotion and interaction mechanisms, such as Facebook connections, as well as the sound concept.
Mapping the paths through the app uncovers breaks and obstacles in the use flow. Involving concept developers, programmers, designers and copywriters ensures that their requirements are met. It pays to work thoroughly, as subsequent modifications are unnerving and costly. Since Apple alone determines whether the app is listed in the store, it pays to involve experienced app programmers who are familiar with Apple's requirements and validation processes.
New apps are found while browsing the App Store. An attractive app icon attracts attention. If the description is also formulated in an appealing way, the chance of downloading increases. Unfortunately, not enough attention is always paid to this fact. Recommendations from the personal environment, the Apple Store and a top position in the download charts also have a major influence on the attention paid to the app. Today, however, it is almost impossible for a new app to achieve the necessary attention and awareness without coordinated initial communication.
The prerequisite for a successful app is to deal with the requirements of the users, Apple and the promotion mechanisms. If this is not done, there is a high probability that the app will join the ominous 95 percent that are ignored or barely noticed.
Imre Sinka
dotpulse web agency Zurich
It is important that the app focuses on one functionality and thus offers the user added value or a quick solution to a problem. As listing in the Apple App Store is not guaranteed, it is advisable to take Apple's specifications into account when developing ideas.
The most important work comes after brainstorming: functions and interaction paths need to be defined and recorded down to the last detail. This work must include the promotion and interaction mechanisms, such as Facebook connections, as well as the sound concept.
Mapping the paths through the app uncovers breaks and obstacles in the use flow. Involving concept developers, programmers, designers and copywriters ensures that their requirements are met. It pays to work thoroughly, as subsequent modifications are unnerving and costly. Since Apple alone determines whether the app is listed in the store, it pays to involve experienced app programmers who are familiar with Apple's requirements and validation processes.
New apps are found while browsing the App Store. An attractive app icon attracts attention. If the description is also formulated in an appealing way, the chance of downloading increases. Unfortunately, not enough attention is always paid to this fact. Recommendations from the personal environment, the Apple Store and a top position in the download charts also have a major influence on the attention paid to the app. Today, however, it is almost impossible for a new app to achieve the necessary attention and awareness without coordinated initial communication.
The prerequisite for a successful app is to deal with the requirements of the users, Apple and the promotion mechanisms. If this is not done, there is a high probability that the app will join the ominous 95 percent that are ignored or barely noticed.
Imre Sinka
dotpulse web agency Zurich
