Top 10 most common mistakes in app development

With over 6 million apps available on the market, standing out and making your app successful is a real challenge. An inadequate design or poor user experience can frustrate your customers, decrease your conversions and directly affect your sales.

Avoiding the most common mistakes during the design of your app can be the first step to differentiate yourself from the competition.

10 mistakes that will hinder the success of your app

Developing an app that meets user expectations and stands out in a competitive market is no easy task. However, identifying and avoiding the most common mistakes can make a big difference.

From design problems to failures in user experience or loading speed, any detail can determine the success or failure of your application.

So, below, we'll explore the 10 most common mistakes to avoid to ensure your app provides an optimal experience, improves your conversions and builds customer loyalty. Join us!

1. Not thinking mobile first

Designing the idea of your app without prioritizing the experience on mobile devices can be a critical mistake. Mobile first design is not an option, it is a necessity. Even if your web in desktop format works great and gives you excellent results, your app has to be based on a mobile first approach. Make sure to:

• Correctly adapt the user experience (UX) for small screens.
• Optimize key elements such as buttons, links, menus and forms. 
• Ensure smooth and frictionless navigation.

2. Not taking advantage of customization functionalities

Copying the structure of your website to create an app is not enough. A well-designed app must offer:

• Unique functionalities that add value to the user experience. 
• Unique content that differentiates the app from other platforms. 
• Options to configure your experience, such as your preferences with notifications.

For example, be sure to integrate geolocation features that allow you to send notifications or display relevant content based on each user's location.

3. Ignoring load speed optimization.

A loading time longer than 3 seconds can result in the abandonment of up to 70% of users, according to some studies. To avoid this:

• Performs frequent speed tests.
• Optimize images and resources within your app.
• Reduce scripts or elements that slow down performance.

Especially during high-demand events, such as Black Friday, a fast app will be key to your conversions.

4. Failure to integrate secure mobile payments

Ecommerce and B2B apps must offer a seamless and secure payment experience. If your app does not include efficient or secure mobile payment options, you could lose sales. 

Make sure you are complying with the latest security requirements and standards so that users feel they are in a safe environment. 

5. Lack of follow-up and updating

An ecommerce or B2B app is not a static product, it requires monitoring and updates, testing new features, trying new designs or launching different campaigns from time to time can be valuable to achieve the success you are looking for. 

In addition, it is recommended to periodically review the navigation and usage data of the app in order to make changes to improve the usability of the application.

6. Underestimating the potential of push notifications

One of the best features of mobile apps is the ability to send personalized push notifications. If you don't use them to keep your users informed about new offers, products or special events, you could be missing a great opportunity to increase retention and sales.

Use segmented and personalized push notifications for:

• Increase customer retention.
• Promote events, discounts and exclusive products.
• Encourage recurring purchases at key moments.

However, avoid saturating your users. Segment messages to make them personalized and relevant.

7. Not optimizing the purchasing process

According to a study by Ingenico ePayments, 6 out of 10 online orders are abandoned before checkout for reasons ranging from payment methods to the number of steps required to complete the purchase.

Make sure your check-out offers an easy and optimized experience for your app user. Offer multiple payment options and clear shipping options and allow the customer to easily save products.

8. Not analyzing user behavior

Not knowing how users interact with your app will limit your ability to improve it. Use analytics tools to:

- Measure key metrics such as session time, abandonment rate and conversion funnels.
- Identify pain points in the user experience.

Analytics will allow you to adjust your strategy and deliver a superior experience.

9. Not offering good customer service in the app.

During events such as Black Friday or Christmas, customers may need immediate support. Integrate:

• Customer service functionalities .
• An updated FAQ section.
• Options for contacting customer service quickly.

A customer who feels supported is more likely to complete their purchase and return.

10. Not taking advantage of post-Peak Season loyalty.

An app should not be useful only during peak seasons. Plan long-term strategies for:

• Build customer loyalty through rewards programs or exclusive discounts.
• Send personalized recommendations based on purchase history.
• Promote complementary or related products.

A solid loyalty strategy can turn your app users into repeat customers.

Conclusion: 

Creating a successful app for your business doesn't have to be an insurmountable challenge. Avoiding these mistakes will help you deliver an optimized mobile experience that increases your sales and improves customer satisfaction.

At Reskyt, we create the app for your ecommerce or B2B and adapt it to the specific needs of the mobile environment, with a custom design that enhances its functionality and fits with your brand. Ask for your demo 100% functional and discover how we can help you stand out in the competitive world of mobile commerce.