Design Mobile Apps for Success
Over on GigaOm, Dev Khare, a VP at venture capital firm Venrock, takes a look at some of the factors that make a mobile app successful. He puts forth the idea that user experience is key to the success of a mobile app, which makes a great deal of sense. He gives several examples of good apps and explains why he likes each, including ease of use, sometimes with just his thumb.
Consider this: would you use an app that was awkward or uncomfortable, unless you absolutely had to use it? Probably not. On the other hand, fun apps that you have no use for besides entertainment will be high on your list. In fact, I’ve heard stories of people using “fun” apps up to 2 hours a day or more, just because the experience was enjoyable. Pretty much a no brainer, right?
So design of mobile apps is far, far more important than many “bedroom developers” consider. The most addictive ones go beyond cookie-cutter UI (User Interface) elements. If you’re building mobile apps, take the time to come up with multiple versions of every screen. Some people believe that the really good ideas start AFTER the 10th design.
If you need templates to work with, check out Smashing Magazine’s list of wireframing templates for mobile design. You can download and print off the templates to sketch out your mobile app screens — in this case for iPad, iPhone, Android (amongst other templates not for mobile apps). If you’re designing for the Apple iPad, also check out Smashing Mag’s design tips for iPad apps, which has a list of other articles worth checking out.