4 Common Mistakes that Mobile App Developers Make

Are you developing a mobile app? If this is the first app that you’ll release to the public, you’re at high risk of making mistakes that other first-time mobile app developers have made before you. But before you make one of the following four mistakes, take a look at how you can avoid them.

1. Rushing the Launch

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Many app developers experience the same thing during their first launch. They’re excited — just like you — and they want to get their creation out to the world. Things seem to be going pretty well with the program, so why drag it out any longer? You launch your app without really thinking about the implications of rushing into things.

The first thing that can happen is that you rush your launch so fast that nobody knows that you’ve released your mobile app. A marketing strategy begins long before your launch, so even when you think that you’re ready, make sure that you’re not setting your release date for tomorrow. Plan to launch a few months from now so that you have time to build interest and market your upcoming program.

The second thing that can happen is that you think that you’re ready when you’re not. When you think that your app is ready, it’s not time to let the whole world see it. Instead, offer your app free to a limited number of beta users who can share their experiences with you. They’ll help you work out the less than user-friendly kinks so that more people are pleased with the first version when you finally launch.

2. Making Promises They Can’t Keep

Another huge mistake that first-time developers make is making promises that they can’t keep. Let’s say that you have a list of app features you’re working on to include. You’re so excited that you’re already telling everyone about everything that your app will be able to do.

Then you run into a programming problem. There’s one feature that you just can’t seem to work out. So you have two choices. Either you can extend your promised launch date, or you can release the app without this feature. Either way you’ve broken a promise.

Instead, keep your marketing efforts and promises to aspects that you can confirm. Have you already figured out the key to the first feature? Then by all means market it, but don’t promise that other features will be there when they may not be. Instead, you might market your other features by saying that your team is working on them.

Releasing the App With Bugs

If you make the above mentioned mistakes, you’re probably going to end up with bugs present in your app at launch. This alone can leave you with a bad reputation, even if you fix the bugs later. Chances are, anyone who was excited about your app is now just frustrated and probably won’t be a repeat customer.

That’s where a beta stage comes in handy. Recruit users who can offer feedback on their experiences prior to launch so that you can fix the bugs before the majority of your customer base has a chance to try your mobile app.

Focusing on One Type of User

When you’re excited about your new app, it can be easy to forget that users will approach your app at many different angles. Some will be working off Apple’s operating system. Others will want an Android version of the app. Some users will want your app to work on their phones with HD screens while others will have older phones that need accommodating. As an app developer, it’s important to design a versatile program that will suit all users’ needs.

Here, “user friendliness” is key. Without taking that into consideration, you’re setting up your app to flop. Experiment with different devices. Make sure that your app is compatible with what’s out there, and don’t just focus on one type of user. Otherwise, you’ll push other potential customers away.

Developing and launching an app can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be a nerve-wracking one. Don’t let your nerves get the best of you. Avoid these four mistakes to help set yourself up for success.