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5 Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Mobile App for Your Business

If you own a smartphone or tablet, you may also have that device loaded with apps. You know that these apps can make staying in shape, organized, and productive a cinch. What you may not realize, however, is that mobile apps also have the potential to boost your business.

With more people using mobile apps than ever before, this is one digital marketing tool you can't afford to ignore - along with web content and SEO, which Central Maine Web can help you with. You also cannot afford to make major mistakes, and this is why you should be aware of some of the most common app snafus made by businesses of all sizes.

Picking the Wrong Platform

You use Amazon to order supplies for your business, so you decide to develop your app for the Amazon store. Unfortunately, you may have just made a big mistake. As successful as this ecommerce and tech giant has been with other ventures, their apps leave a lot to be desired.

If you want the most bang for your buck, you should focus your app on the more popular Google app stores. Google boasts 3 million apps, compared to Amazon's shockingly low 600,000. For even more exposure, consider building your app for iOS devices, too, like iPads and iPhones.

Getting Code or Design Wrong

Not sure how to build an app for either Google or Apple devices? That's okay! While most of us use apps in our everyday routines, not many of us know how to create a clean, polished one. Now, you could work through tutorials and guides, but you're also likely to get something wrong.

Rather than waste your time, keep things simple by connecting with a seasoned iPad app developer via sites like Upwork. Someone who is well-versed in crafting iPad apps, for instance, will know how to turn your app dreams into reality and get that app on to more iOS devices.

Failing to Beta Test Apps First

Ever been part of an exclusive beta test for a popular app? If so, you probably felt like you were a VIP and that having that access was pretty exciting. Aside from generating excitement about new apps and products, beta testing has a much more practical purpose.

Beta testing your new app with a small group is a valuable way to get feedback and work out kinks without putting your company's reputation at risk. Though beta testing has some perks, you should also be aware of potential security and privacy issues to protect your business.

Creating an App With No Purpose

What does your app do? Is it an extension of your ecommerce store? These may seem like basic questions, but they're often missed by business owners looking to develop a dedicated app. Bottom line: Apps need a purpose.

Your app should solve a problem for either you or your business, so don't just create an app because you think you need one. With a clear purpose in mind, you can decide which features to include in your app. Perhaps you can send push notifications to alert customers to sales? Or offer special savings for app transactions? These features can boost the success of your app.

Failing to Engage Users With Features

Push messages and discounts can get more people using your app, but these are basic features any business or retail app should have. The bigger question should be, what about your app helps your business stand out from your competitors?

If your business sells cosmetics or clothing, for example, try-on features could entice users to choose your products over offerings from the competition. Features like this that are interactive and fun are an extremely effective way to increase ROI and popularity for your app.

You use apps to improve your health, sleep, productivity, and daily life. So why not use a mobile app to improve your business? With this guide in hand, you'll already be ahead of the competition, and you'll know which mistakes to avoid. Then, you can focus your efforts on coming up with an app that will wow your audience and takes your business to the next level.

To promote your app, products, and services, make sure to take advantage of Central Maine Web's expertise. Call (207) 873-9321 for a consultation.

Photo Credit: Pexels If you're looking for web design, hosting packages or SEO services, turn to Central Maine Web for an affordable, stress-free experience. 207-873-9321

*Image via Pexels

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