Mobile App Statistics
Now that we have established those statistics, let’s take a look at what people do with these cell phones.
Once upon a time, a cellphone was a luxury; now it is an absolute necessity. The phone does literally everything for you. Takes pictures. Connects with people via texting. Social media access. And the most important of them all - Google. It helps you find your answers on the go.
Now, what was the point of those statistics? That people love using the phone for almost everything. And almost everywhere. So, unless you create a fantastic mobile app, compatible with every design style and size; you be guaranteed of an uphill task of marketing. Now that we have established the importance of a mobile app, let’s talk about the design. Everyone has realized the ‘secret’ of the popularity of the mobile app and have developed it for their products and services. Some organizations even have put out multiple apps.
The question is, how can you make your app stand out?
- Good content? Check.
- Easy CTA? Check.
- High SEO ranking? Check.
Last but not least, some mind-blowing app design. Yes. We have already talked about how customers are not going to be patient and wait around for something. They click. They don't like. They close and move on. And this is literally all of 10 seconds. So, if you want your app to convert, you need something novel, out of the ordinary and yet relatable to the customer.
You need to build a product that attracts. App functionalities and features mean a lot. There is a critical requirement for an attractive design. Not just websites, but apps too are judged by their appearances. More often than not, it is the UI/UX that prompts people to install an app. And uninstall, if anything less than impressive.
Top 5 things to look at when you create a mobile app design:
No Multitasking
The space on a smartphone is quite minimal. Multiple actions on this screen are not just chaos, they are plain wrong. Every screen should facilitate only one key action item. Your mobile app design should be such that the users feel comfortable with it. They can adapt to it with ease and engage with you without feeling frustrated and lost. From your point of view, it gives you the scope to make changes if necessary.
Affordances and Signifiers
Let’s define the terms first. An affordance is a situation where an object’s sensory characteristics intuitively imply its functionality and use.
- Visual affordance: A raised button prompts the user to press it.
- Language affordance: A button with ‘click me’
- Pattern affordance: Arrow mark
- Symbolic affordance: Icon
The signifier, on the other hand, is the pointing finger, a sound, an image or a word, and it's related to semiotics.
If you understand everything in a couple of seconds, you are good. Else, go back and take a look. Your mobile app design should help the user understand what is happening at every stage.
3. Not too little, not too much
Too much of anything is bad. Too little and customers lose interest just the same. A mobile app design does not just aim to attract eyeballs, but it is supposed to represent the brand and the message. Do not go overboard with the animation either. Be careful what you put out there. If it does not resonate with the right audience, you do not have a chance to convince them to purchase what you have to offer.
4. Optimisation for different sizes and devices
Different people. Different devices. Different sizes. Your one app. You have a lot of ground to cover if you are not able to reach all of them at once. So, make sure that your app is optimised for different devices and various sizes. As the same OS has a wide range of screen sizes available, designers must keep in mind that the UI should remain consistent. The trick is to start with the smallest screen. Bigger screens can then be taken care of.
5. Stick to the core UI principles
The design principle must be central to your core design. They enable you to create a functional and attractive mobile app interface. Data is immense. Space availability is low. Don’t lose track of the mission. Remember the basics to help you keep an eye on the destination. Clarity and consistency are vital. Leave some breathing space around. Proper contrast helps.
What are the basics? The user should be comfortable with the app. When he opens it, he should be able to understand where to go and how to use it instantly. He should not require a manual. We are not trying to test his intelligence at any stage. We are here to help him find his way and guide him to his destination - the CTA button. Which is where we want him to be as well. So, why allow him to get lost at all?
A mobile app design should be intelligent, legible and seamless. Then, you have a winner. Connect with us to create a clear, legible and engaging mobile app design. Welcome the right audience to the app, woo them in the right way and create customers for life.