Deciding to Build an App

Imagine you have a solution that offers a valuable service. One of the first questions to consider is, "How will users engage with my solution?" Mobile applications are just one of many interfaces, which also include websites, physical products, and traditional stores. It's essential to remember that the focus should be on user interaction, not merely the service itself. Each interaction mode has its advantages and disadvantages, influencing your product's design and functionality.

When contemplating the phrase, "I have an idea for an app that…," the initial query should be, "Should this be an app or a website?" Evaluating the pros and cons of each interface helps you select the most suitable option for your idea. Forcing a website to function as an app, or vice versa, can lead to significant challenges.

Mobile applications offer a unique advantage in their closeness to users. While a website exists online, an app resides in the user's pocket. This immediate access means app features are readily available. Users don't have to remember a URL or perform a search to use the app. Successful mobile apps capitalize on this accessibility. For instance, 81% of Facebook's users engage with the platform primarily through mobile devices. Similarly, food delivery services like DoorDash and UberEats thrive on their mobile-first approach. The convenience of having an app nearby allows users to place orders with ease.

This proximity is linked to the requirement for users to download the app. Once installed, it maintains a presence on their device, even if not actively used. This "permanence" is beneficial, as users might open the app simply after noticing its icon. However, it's vital to note that this permanence doesn't guarantee regular usage. Approximately 25% of apps are opened only once post-download. These apps may be permanent, yet they fail to engage users effectively, often due to a lack of immediate or frequent utility.

A category of apps that sometimes struggles in this regard is informational applications, which primarily offer static information. A case in point is UC Berkeley's mobile app, which serves to inform users about campus details. Much of the information is available on the university's website, making the app less appealing due to its cumbersome navigation. If users can easily replace your app with a Google search, it may not be worth developing as an app.

Similarly, apps created by large institutions, like banks or healthcare providers, often fall into this category. While they may offer valuable services like appointment scheduling or portfolio management, these features tend to be infrequently used, making them better suited for websites.

The distinction between high and low-frequency features is essential. For instance, Robinhood and Charles Schwab both serve the finance sector but approach app design differently. Schwab Mobile offers a broad range of features, resulting in infrequent usage. Conversely, Robinhood focuses on simplifying trades, encouraging daily engagement with intuitive design.

Understanding the limitations of mobile applications is crucial. Screen size constraints and touch-based interactions influence design decisions. Complex tasks may not translate well to mobile, and features must be streamlined for accessibility. Generally, if a user cannot complete a task within three clicks, the likelihood of continued engagement diminishes.

Hardware limitations also play a role. While mobile technology continues to advance, tasks requiring significant computational power, like machine learning, often rely on server-based algorithms. Nevertheless, innovations like Apple's Neural Processing Unit are enhancing mobile capabilities, opening doors for applications in augmented reality and sensor connectivity.

Choosing Your Platform

Once you've determined that your idea aligns with mobile app development, the next step is selecting the right platform. Broadly, you can choose between:

1. iOS
2. Android
3. Both

Your decision should be guided by two key factors: the demographics of your target users and your technical expertise. Android dominates the smartphone market with about 71% share, while iOS accounts for roughly 27%. However, understanding your user base is paramount.

For example, Branch International, a micro-lending startup, targets consumers in emerging markets where Android is prevalent. In this case, Android is the logical platform choice. If your app appeals to a general audience, you might consider cross-platform development to maximize reach. While this can be resource-intensive, frameworks like React Native or Flutter enable faster development with a shared codebase, albeit with certain limitations.

If you're new to app development, consider creating a Progressive Web Application (PWA) or utilizing no-code platforms like AppSheet. While these options may impose restrictions on functionality, they offer accessible pathways to bring your idea to life without extensive coding knowledge.

Designing Your App

With your platform chosen, the final step is designing your application for success. Engagement should be at the forefront of your design strategy. Successful apps deliver immediate, frequent information, encouraging users to return regularly. Aim for features that provide fresh content and streamline user experience.

Design encompasses more than aesthetics; it includes intuitive navigation and familiar interfaces. Some apps, like Snapchat, faced initial usability challenges due to their unconventional design choices. Despite their success, even established apps must evolve to enhance usability and appeal to broader audiences.

Gamification can also boost engagement. By integrating game-like elements, you can foster emotional connections with users. For example, Snapchat's Streaks encourage daily interaction, while TikTok's algorithm keeps users engaged by offering tailored content. Apps like Forest gamify productivity, rewarding users for staying focused.

However, it's essential to remember that not all gamification strategies succeed. Genuine emotional attachment is necessary for effective engagement, requiring thoughtful planning and consideration of user experience.