Intelligent SME.tech Issue 47 | Page 34

// EXPERT PROFILE //

How to optimise an app

FOR SUSTAINED BUSINESS GROWTH

In today ’ s competitive digital landscape , developing a mobile app is often the cornerstone of a successful business strategy . However , creating an app is just the beginning ; optimising it for sustained growth is where the real challenge lies . Rohan Patel , SVP of Engineering at Builder . ai , explains how business leaders must focus on various factors , including user experience , performance , analytics and continuous improvement , to ensure their app not only attracts users but also retains them , ultimately driving long-term business growth .

PERFORMANCE OPTIMISATION
IS CRITICAL
TO USER RETENTION . SLOW LOAD TIMES AND FREQUENT CRASHES CAN DETER USERS , LEADING TO
HIGH UNINSTALL RATES .

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Focus on User Experience ( UX ) and User Interface ( UI ) design
A seamless and intuitive user experience is paramount . Your app ’ s design should be usercentric , ensuring that navigation is seamless and the interface is visually appealing . Here are key points to consider :
• Simplicity and intuition : Ensure your app is easy to use from the first interaction . Avoid cluttered screens and excessive features that can overwhelm users . Instead , focus on core functionalities that address user needs efficiently .
• Responsive design : Make sure your app is optimised for various devices and screen sizes . A responsive design improves user satisfaction by providing a consistent experience across different platforms .
• Usability testing : Conduct regular usability tests to gather feedback directly from users . This helps in identifying pain points and areas for improvement , ensuring the app evolves in line with user expectations .
Optimise app performance
Performance optimisation is critical to user retention . Slow load times and frequent crashes can deter users , leading to high uninstall rates . Here ’ s how to maintain optimal performance :
• Speed and efficiency : Optimise your app ’ s code to ensure fast load times . This involves minimising the use of heavy resources , compressing images and leveraging caching mechanisms .
• Regular updates and bug fixes : Address bugs and performance issues promptly through regular updates . An app that is frequently updated not only stays relevant but also shows users that the business is committed to providing a quality experience .
• Offline capabilities : Incorporate offline functionalities to allow users to access certain features without an Internet connection . This enhances usability and can be a significant differentiator in the market .
Leverage data analytics for informed decisions
Data analytics play a crucial role in understanding user behaviour and improving app performance . By leveraging analytics , business leaders can make data-driven decisions that contribute to sustained growth .
• User analytics : Track user interactions within the app to understand which features are most popular and where users drop off . This data helps in refining the
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Intelligent SME . tech