Mobile app development: 5 opportunities your company will gain with an app of its own

With the massive adoption of smartphones, the development of mobile apps not only improves the user experience, but also generates significant revenue for companies that know how to build them, and today there are apps for practically everything, from games, social networks, entertainment, health and sports, to finance, travel, technology, among others, reinforcing its importance in the global market. 

Did you know that... according to Statista, it is estimated that users spend around 3 hours and 37 minutes browsing apps? And it is estimated that since 2007, with the launch of the first iPhone, applications have not stopped growing in popularity. So betting on the development of mobile apps has become key for both entrepreneurs and large corporations. 

It is a process that involves a series of knowledge and skills such as programming and design to develop software from scratch, which is functional on mobile devices, in order to fulfill specific user functions. 

Although web and mobile application development has its roots in traditional software development, mobile apps take full advantage of the features of mobile devices, such as cameras or microphones, and create more specific experiences. 

What types of mobile apps are there?

Although in the beginning, for an app to work on a device, a specific code had to be created for each processor, today technology has made giant steps forward and there are 3 main types of apps, each with its advantages and disadvantages:

1. Native applications

In mobile app development, native apps are created for a specific operating system (such as Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android). They offer optimal performance and can take full advantage of the device's features, such as the camera or GPS.

Example: Instagram is a native app that uses advanced camera, microphone, location and editing capabilities.

2. Progressive Web Apps (PWA)

These are applications that run in a web browser but offer a similar experience to native apps. They do not require downloading and are ideal for quick access.

Example: Flipboard is a great example of a PWA app, as it is very functional with very few resources. 

3. Hybrid apps

These combine elements of native and web applications. They are developed using frameworks that allow them to be deployed on multiple platforms with the same code.

Example: Uber uses hybrid technology to offer a consistent experience on iOS and Android.

Process for creating a mobile app

The development of mobile apps must have a process and follow a series of considerations so that it can be realistic, functional, and offer quality to users. It is not enough to have a revolutionary or very original idea, you have to plan how to execute it. 

Companies like Spotify or Amazon are clear examples of how a well-designed and executed app creates a whole experience and can transform entire sectors. 

Idea and planning

How do you know where you are going if there is no plan? First you must define the purpose of your app, the necessary functionalities, the target audience and the resources you are going to use. Remember that developing an app is not just anything, it takes time and economic resources. 

Market test

Being a company, this step can sometimes be easier, since you already have a defined market, but it is mandatory to delimit and study your target audience perfectly. We invite you to ask yourself: What will my application provide that others do not? In order to offer a plus to users. 

UX/UI Design

The user-centered design, which offers a good experience both visually and in functionality and quality, is the axis of the development of an app. From the colors you use, the fonts and sizes, to the size and quantity of information, payment methods, speed of navigation, everything counts and UX/UI design is involved in everything. 

As specialists in UX/UI design, at BluePixel we understand the importance of having the right experts for the development and design of your app, because even if you have a great idea, if you do not execute it properly, it will not stand out. 

Testing and debugging

Trial and error, a possibly tedious stage of the process, but the only option to ensure that the software works correctly and the experience it offers is optimal. 

Warning! This step of the process can be time-consuming, as it may include prototypes and tests to reach the final application. An example is Tinder, because although the basic idea was always to match couples, there were many improvements and modifications and in fact, it was launched as a prototype in universities. 

Launch and maintenance

Once you have studied your market, designed and perfected your application, the moment of truth arrives, launching it in stores such as Google Play or App Store, where you will also have to comply with a series of requirements and be in charge of disseminating the new tool that you will offer to your customers.

Remember that, once in the market, updates and continuous support are essential and mandatory for your application, not only to ensure proper functionality, but also to evolve and offer better and better experiences, more specific and focused on your market. 

Since its launch, Facebook has not stopped receiving maintenance and offering updates to users and part of its success is due to the fact that they have never stopped trying new things and studying more and more about their market. 

Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty: benefits for your company of investing in a mobile application 

1. User attraction and retention

Mobile applications allow you to personalize the user experience, which increases satisfaction and promotes loyalty. Through push notifications, rewards programs and content tailored to the user's preferences, it is possible to keep their attention in the long term.One example is Starbucks, which uses its app to offer personalized loyalty programs. 

2. Increased conversions

A mobile application optimizes the purchasing process, making it much simpler and more convenient. With features such as integrated payments, abandoned cart reminders and personalized recommendations, conversion rates are significantly improved.A great example of increased conversions is Amazon, which implements a number of strategies and as a result, half of its sales come from mobile users.

3. Creating competitive advantage

An innovative application can differentiate a company from its competition. Consider that integrating technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality or unique features helps to stand out in the market. 

4. Accessibility and usability

‍Mobile apps provide fast and efficient access to products and services anytime, anywhere. Many applications, moreover, by offering offline functionalities, ensure availability even without an Internet connection. Netflix is a great example, as it allows users to download content in its app, enabling offline access to series and movies, which increases customer retention. 

5. Savings in development costs.

Thanks to cross-platform frameworks, companies can develop a single app that works on both Android and iOS. This reduces development and maintenance costs, optimizing the budget.

‍In a world where mobile applications dominate the digital experience, betting on their development is no longer an option, but a necessity for companies looking to stay competitive and relevant. 

And it is very important that, from the initial idea to the launch and maintenance, you count on experts in mobile app development, such as the specialists at BluePixel, because it will make the difference between a functional app and a truly successful one.‍

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