Let’s take a moment to think about our favorite apps. No, don’t get distracted by the app, just think about what makes the app a must-have.
We all have apps we can’t live without and part of the reason is that they’re incredibly user-centered. They’re designed in such a way to give us the best experience while still serving the purpose we need them to. There’s a reason why only a handful of weather apps are popular out of the hundreds or even thousands available.
So, when it comes to mobile, we have to work hard to improve the UX in mobile applications so users get a new favorite, must-have app.
1. Make It Incredibly Easy To Learn
Over half of users uninstall an app within the first three months. Why? While there are multiple factors, one of the top reasons is because it’s too difficult to use. While complex designs might seem neat in theory, they just complicate the user experience.
Unless absolutely necessary to explain new features or how to play a game, users aren’t interested in having to go through mandatory tutorials, register an account for an app they don’t even know if they like yet, hunt around for a new innovative menu or any other features that make it more difficult to actually use the app itself.
2. Focus On Finger-Friendly Design
A good rule of “thumb” is to design for fat thumbs. One of the best ways to improve UX in mobile applications is to make it easy for the user to navigate without making many mistakes. When things are too cluttered or items are too small, it’s hard for users to actually interact with the app. We’ve all had those apps that we hate because when we try to tap something, it takes several tries to tap the right thing.
3. Research The User, Not The Business
Yes, the client or business’s needs are important, but not when it comes to UX. Improve by researching the user. It’s a common challenge with UX – trying to find a balance between the user and what the client wants. However, adding in tons of features just because the client thinks that’ll make their app stand out isn’t always the right choice.
Instead, focus on the user. Start by observing people and how they interact with mobile devices. Beta test with potential users and consider their feedback. After all, they’ll be the ones using the app, so it’s important that the experience is one they’ll enjoy.
4. Offer Customization Options
Personalization is a growing trend with mobile apps. It’s also a great way to improve the UX in mobile applications. Users love the option to customize the app to better meet their needs. The more control that’s taken away, the worse the experience.
For instance, how many of us really need push notifications for every app? Why does every app absolutely need location tracking to function? Give users the option to opt-in or opt-out of different features and permissions. Let them control the layout (when possible, such as showing the 7-day forecast first versus the radar on a weather app). Part of the user experience is being able to make the app feel like it’s personalized for every individual user.
5. Ease Up On Resource Usage
The two most annoying things about mobile devices are disappearing signals (anyone else think those coverage maps are lying?) and a dying battery when the phone’s needed most. So, improve the app experience easily by easing up on the resources the app uses.
For instance, many apps drain batteries quickly. Obviously, users aren’t going to interact with these apps as often so they can save their batteries. Another consideration is offering an offline option to decrease data usage. While they’re not necessarily major app features, they make the app more usable and thus provide a much better user experience.
Improving UX in mobile apps isn’t hard. Listen to user feedback and put the users’ needs first. From there, it’ll all fall into place.
Images: Bruno Gomiero, Jaelynn Castillo, rawpixel.com