What NOT To Do When Designing Your App
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By 2030, our current dependency on websites may seem as quaint as dial-up internet does to the modern broadband user. New technologies are queuing up to replace those time-honored web pages, from algorithm-powered chatbots to mobile apps. Yet the latter remain a work in progress. They are far more prone to glitches than websites, and frequently requesting bandwidth-hogging updates. These can confuse audiences who had just got used to the previous app’s interface. That is not conducive to loyalty or business.
These are some of the design pitfalls to avoid when creating a new Android or iOS app:
Crashing
This might seem obvious, yet it’s surprising how many apps fail to work properly or end up hanging while loading. Platforms reliant on third-party data can be especially buggy, from football news aggregators to cinema listing apps. Beta testing is vital on as many platforms as possible, with all feedback actioned prior to launch.
Thinking Small
Apps are designed on desktop monitors, but using them on a four-inch screen while sitting on a train is a very different experience. Use large icons with space around them, make sure navigation functions are prominent on every page, and store previously-entered data to minimize time spent tapping on a tiny keyboard.
Lengthy Registration Processes
It’s inadvisable to front-end requests for user data on first use. Give people positive reasons to register their details, but allow them to do it after familiarizing themselves with the app. Also offer optional tutorials, display useful first-time messages that can be closed, and try to include a Help facility. It really is worth perfecting your bedside manner on this one.
Overly Intrusive Adverts
Cynics might suggest adverts are intrusive by definition, but there’s a clear difference between a discreet banner ad and a hover ad that fills the screen. Consumers are fatigued with intrusive advertising, so avoid mass uninstalls by opting for sponsorship or publishing discreet ads on secondary pages within the app.
Color Clashes
Going through the apps on your own smartphone, you’ll probably notice the use of one or two primary colors but little else. Apps should be readable and intuitive, with light text on a dark background or vice versa. The colors of the rainbow might make the app stand out, but they’ll overcrowd and confuse the UX.
Inconsistency
Many apps have been derailed by endless meetings that generate new ideas from different people, creating jumbled design and content. Draw up a flowchart framework at the outset and stick to it despite any temptation to tinker – apps written by several people tend to look incoherent, as do those with last-minute add-ons.
Unavoidable Paid Upgrades
We’ve all downloaded apps that claim to be free, but are effectively useless without paying for add-ons. If you need audiences to pay for the app to cover its creation, charge them up front with a compelling business case. In-app purchases should always be optional and promoted without too much hard-sell.
Too Many Functions
If you run an ecommerce platform, every element of the app should focus on encouraging sales and repeat custom. An app is not the place for About Us pages or pointless sub-games, and the same goes for its appearance. Always look to streamline and minimize, rather than overloading and cluttering the app. That way you’ll gain loyal users who may well transform into advocates.