Big Data and User Experience Fuel Mobile App Development

Over the past decade, we have witnessed the incredible rise of mobile devices. Changing the way we consume information, the mobile experience offers unparalleled convenience. Everything seems to be only a few taps away, with more businesses deploying apps in an attempt to lure in more customers. But creating apps just for the sake of it doesn’t cut it. It proves challenging to keep up with the trends in mobile app development, as the mobile landscape never stops evolving.

The Evolution of Mobile Apps

When the first wave of mobile apps entered the market, most of them contained elements optimized for the web or desktop. Developers soon realized that everything they learned about creating apps for the desktop environment had to be brushed aside.

There was also a time when companies decided to release an app for a single operating system only. The idea was to choose between the iOS and Android, based primarily on which of the two was more popular among their target audience. Taking this route also meant spending less. This strategy, however, didn’t work as well.

Putting Users at the Core of the Mobile Experience

Designing an app requires a mobile-first approach. Consumers use desktop apps and mobile apps differently. By taking cues from users, developers become better equipped to provide the optimal experience for their target audience.

It’s worth noting that mobile-first doesn’t only entail optimizing for mobile devices. More importantly, the design process should focus on the overall mobile experience. Can the app be used offline? Are users required to pay for extra features? What permissions will be asked from the users?

Another critical factor in mobile app development is the creation of an app that remains consistent across all operating systems and mobile devices. Consistency plays a major role in boosting brand recognition. With an app that works seamlessly regardless of the device and operating system of users, businesses can maximize their reach.

Big Data Becomes the Go-To Resource of Developers

The top-rated mobile applications rake in millions of dollars in revenue each month, while less successful ones struggle to generate even a few hundred bucks. Surely, developers of the most successful mobile applications are doing something that gives them an edge. Though the secret appears to be complex, it all lies in leveraging big data to glean insightful information about user behavior, demographics, and interests.

Big data refers to information gathered from different sources including social media, web logs, and payment orders. Through effective big data analytics, mobile app developers can have a better understanding of market trends. They can also make adjustments to apps based on user feedback and behavior. For instance, big data allow developers to determine where a user had dinner and deliver highly relevant push notifications or advertisements.

Mobile app developers must remain on their toes to keep up with the latest market trends. But amidst all the constant changes, one thing remains certain: Creating apps based on big data to optimize for user experience makes for a perfect recipe for success.

About Author