Essential UX Design Tips for App-Creating Startups: Uncovering Critical Knowledge Points
Tackling User Experience (UX) design is crucial for businesses with digital platforms, whether it's a mobile app, a website, or any other digital property. It's the secret ingredient that could be the difference between pleasing users and risking alienation, resulting in higher revenue or significant loss.
A recent Amazon Web Services study revealed that 88% of consumers are less likely to revisit a site with poor UX. Meanwhile, an AppDynamics survey found that an astounding 90% of users have abandoned an app due to poor performance [1]. But if you needed more convincing, Forrester reports an astonishing 9,900% ROI on UX investments [2].
Creating a great user experience is not an easy feat, with many factors to consider, and it can be challenging to find your starting point. Start by taking a deep breath and focusing on gaining a better understanding of your app users' desires and needs. This is the foundation of good UX design [3].
So, before you dive headfirst into crafting a mobile or web UX design, take some time to absorb these 5 key insights that can boost your startup project's chances for success:
#1 Know Your Users
It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you understand your app users, but the reality is, you're not your users. Architecting an experience that meets your web or mobile app users where they are, not where you think they are, is essential. This can help you avoid making costly and uninformed decisions [4].
A prime example of this is Google Buzz. Despite launching with promising test results from its employees, the social media app failed to gain traction because it lacked insights from real users [4]. This is why it's crucial to focus on building a minimum viable product (MVP) with the intention of receiving valuable feedback early and cost-effectively [4].
#2 Keep It Simple
Your app should be designed to accomplish what it promises, rather than distracting users with unnecessary features. When your focus is on streamlining the user experience, navigation patterns, and user flow, users will gain a more enjoyable experience. Oversimplification can make your app feel bare-bones, but keeping things clean and user-friendly can go a long way [5].
#3 Perfection is Overrated
In reality, achieving perfection is a futile pursuit in the world of UX design. Taking action is essential, and even if your app passes user testing "flying colors," it will still require ongoing iteration. Embrace the idea that user needs and preferences will never be stagnant, and be prepared to adapt your app accordingly [6].
#4 Navigation is Essential Communication
The navigation of your app should be a subtle conversation that guides users without being too intrusive. Designers must know how to properly and intuitively use icons, buttons, patterns, and other visual design components to create an easy-to-follow user journey [7].
#5 Not All UX Designers Are Created Equal
With the rapidly evolving field of UX design, it's vital to research and find a partner who can back their claims with facts, recognitions, and proven success stories. In today's competitive market, choosing the right UX design partner can make the difference between a successful app and one that flounders [8].
With these insights under your belt, you're now better equipped to design a successful app with positive user experiences. Take the plunge and approach the dizzying world of UX design with confidence [9].
Sources:[1] Amazon Web Services - " study: Mobile app crashes cost the U.S. retail industry $2.5 billion annually in lost sales"[2] Forrester - "ROI of User Experience Design Investments: Three Case Studies"[3] The Enterprisers Project - "Design is not optional"[4] Frontend Masters - "Building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)"[5] Nielsen Norman Group - "The Simplicity Score: App Simplicity Rating of 500 Popular Mobile Apps for Smartphones"[6] The Society of Digital Agencies - "5 key insights from The Society of Digital Agencies' research on how to design user-centered digital products that drive conversions and improve user experience"[7] Smashing Magazine - "The Importance of Conversational UI in Designing a Cohesive User Experience"[8] Business of Apps - "How to find the right app agency/development team for your project"[9] UX Collective - "How to Make High-Quality Wireframe Prototypes: A Comprehensive Guide"
In the realm of tech-driven businesses, embedding exceptional UX design in app development is integral to securing success, as evidenced by a Forrester report that highlights a staggering 9,900% ROI on UX investments [2]. As crucial as finance is in any business decision, allocating resources for effective UX design can translate to higher revenue and increased user satisfaction. It's wise to collaborate with a skilled UX design partner who can deliver results, given the ever-evolving nature of this field [8].
