8 Things to Consider When Exploring a Mobile App

So you’re considering creating your very own mobile app? That’s great!

Before you shell out the cash (and time!) to develop it, there are several things you should consider first.

1. Only 25-50 Apps Account for 80-90% of All App Usage*

Think about that for a minute. This means that many, many apps never even get used after they’re downloaded. If you’re going to go through with an app, make sure it’s good and it can be among the top few hundred apps in the world. This means you have to have an incredible app development team that knows their stuff.

2. The Average Retention Rate of Apps is 90 Days

When someone downloads an app, the average time it spends on their device is 90 days before it’s deleted. If you plan to invest in an app, make sure it can stand the test of time. If you’re not prepared to make it the best app in its class, don’t bother investing in an app.

3. Do You Need Specific Features?

If you have specific needs that cannot be done via mobile web, such as push notifications, it might be worth investing in a mobile app. But if you can do everything via mobile web that you want, there’s no need for an app.

4. Does Your App Add Value?

Is your app concept something valuable enough that people will want to download it?  If not, stick with your mobile site.

5. Prepare For Sticker Shock

App development is expensive. And it’s ALWAYS more expensive than you think.

6. Do You Have the Manpower to Keep up With Updates?

Many apps are managed outside of the website CMS. The time needed to manage it should be accounted for before you get started. 

7. What is Your Marketing Plan?

What is your marketing plan to get people to download and use the app? Your idea might be brilliant, but if no one knows about it, it will be a waste of money.

8. Always Invest in Your Responsive Website

There is much more traffic overall on the mobile web today. People are still using the internet via their mobile devices, so every business should be optimized (fully responsive) for the mobile web. Before you even consider creating an app, be sure you have a killer responsive website.

Still think you need custom app development? Let us know.