The Journey of Building Apps and Websites

 

It can be intimidating to begin your own app development journey for your company. Making an innovative app for your company involves many steps. This manual will show you step-by-step how to begin developing apps for your company. Once you get going, you will learn what steps you should take before contacting a developer and what to keep in mind! How can an app benefit your company?

You might be asking, what value does an application add to my business?

Apps that are both internal and external will significantly impact your company. In a nutshell, an app for your company will boost productivity and simplify your life. Apps can also improve customer engagement and interaction with your company. Through features that aren't present in web browsers, apps have the power to attract the attention of both current and potential customers. A useful app enables you to:

• Boost output and reduce the paper trail in your company.

• Increase brand recognition.

• Promote a brand's loyalty.

• Boost customer involvement.

• Offers should be direct and specific.

• Faster customer service and assistance

It's a good idea to identify a problem first if you don't yet have an app idea but are confident that an app will benefit your company. You can develop an app that addresses a problem or issue within your company by identifying it. This implies that the app you develop for your company will be valuable and a good investment. The following are some typical issues that an app can assist you in resolving for your business:

• Distribution of information and customer service

• Corporate internal tool

• Supervision of employee work.

• Monitoring the operations of your business processes

• Introducing fresh goods and services to the marketplace

• Data as needed.

• Collecting and processing useful data

• Customer interaction.

• Faster customer service and assistance

• Maintain a competitive edge in your sector.

How exactly do we create a mobile application?

1) Strategy, planning, and analytics are the first steps

Analytics is a stage that is of utmost importance. It is not necessary to stop working on it and begin the project specified in the terms of reference. We learn who is in the market, who to target, and the best way to avoid doing this during the analysis process. Business analysts lay out the specifications for a mobile application, present methods for implementation, and develop user interface (UI) wireframes that serve as the application's foundation.

• Examining and surveying business procedures

• An explanation of both functional and non-functional requirements in detail.

• Deciding on the future mobile application's data direction.

• Creating potential user interaction scenarios.

• Technical specifications for creation

• Preparing and outlining the application's requirements (such as having a server for data processing or storage, having an admin panel, having the option to edit content, etc.).

Determine the objectives of the company, research your audience and communication methods, and examine your competitors to help you find the best positioning. Focus groups, peer reviews, and executive and client interviews are frequently included in analytics.

Such planning will assist in gathering all the requirements and organising them into comprehensible visual models, such as mind maps, business process diagrams, and user journeys, before deciding on the foundation for development and moving on to the prototype.

Consider the monetization plan at the bank to be taken into account when creating the application as another way to increase profits.

2) Stages in UI/UX design creation:

• Choosing stylistics that are appropriate for the customer's roles, standing, and reputation

• Development of the application's design concept.

• Design components are listed on the drawing screen.

• Creation of graphic content, such as icons, illustrations, and photos.

The application's design objective is to offer a seamless, uncomplicated, and visually appealing user experience. DesignLab will make sure to create a unique design for your product because it's important to stand out and maintain your brand's identity.

For the majority of users, the design must be practical, straightforward, and understandable; however, this is harder to accomplish than it might first appear. UI and UX are typically built from scratch. Drawing on-screen maps, creating graphical elements, and developing software prototypes for various use cases are all used here.

A fundamental design principle is consistency. This dispels the uncertainty. It is crucial to keep the application's overall appearance and feel consistent. The procedure, when used in a mobile application, means the following:

• Visual coherence

The application must use the same fonts, buttons, and labels throughout.

• Functionality Sequence

The functionality of interactive elements should be consistent throughout your application.

• External Consistency

For a variety of products, the design must be uniform. In order to use another product, the user can apply previously acquired knowledge.

3) Prototyping

Separate static from interactive prototypes. The designer creates prototypes, which are the trial versions of the programme's layouts. The latter includes buttons for transitions and controls.

When prototyping, an analyst considers the application's flow and the user interface's navigational structure. The original concept might need to be modified for the target market and the tasks that must be accomplished using the mobile application.

The customer and the prototype are in agreement after development. If modifications are required, they are made, and the project is given to the designer. The latter decides on the application's style. This makes use of the dimensions, padding, and animation elements from the Material Design Guidelines and the iOS Human Interface Guidelines.

Figma is a recommended online tool for interactive prototyping. You can view the mobile application as though it were already prepared and set up on the device by clicking the link. It is okay to navigate between pages, use control buttons, etc.

Both the client and the contractor benefit from interactive prototypes. The latter will be able to spot mistakes and act swiftly to correct them.

4) App creation

First, these platforms' development is complete:- 

• Nearly 95% of the market for mobile devices is dominated by Android and iOS.

• Linux, Windows, Symbian, and other platforms receive the balance.

Tablets, wearable technology like electronic watches and fitness trackers, wearable gadgets with AR, and smart TVs should also be taken into account in addition to apps for smartphones. By the way, the number of them increases yearly.

The applications for these gadgets, which frequently use our two flagship platforms, fall under the umbrella of mobile development.

There are two stages involved in creating a service code:

• Back end

• Front end

The client-side of the app's development, including the interface and business logic, is called the frontend. Native and cross-platform applications are the two different categories.

5) Testing Phase

Product testing involves looking for mistakes in a recently developed mobile service. Clients frequently make the mistake of underestimating the value of the testing phase and their desire to launch the project as quickly as possible in order to eliminate any potential bugs "on the fly."

It will eventually be necessary to fix mistakes, but doing so will cost more money this way. Application testing is done throughout the entire development process. They examine the ease of use, level of security, speed, and responsiveness of the user interface. This enables prompt error correction and the delivery of a normally functioning final product.

Mobile developers are advised to perform regression testing in addition to basic testing. Its purpose is to ensure that after some errors are fixed, no new ones appear and that the portions of the code that were unaffected continue to run successfully. Although the testing phase requires a lot of money and time, it is not worthwhile to turn it into a savings item.

Phases for the following aspects of the phone platform:

• Registration, authorization, and payment for purchases

• Various hardware options and support for various operating systems

• Under a range of loads, from minimal to maximal, performance and service work are performed. At this point, the data transfer rate between the server and external interface is assessed.

• Because they are insecure, users occasionally remove mobile platforms. Therefore, a requirement ensures that private information won't be accessible to outsiders.

6) Release

The last step in creating a mobile service is to submit it to an app store, such as Google Play or the App Store.

If everything goes according to plan, it will be accessible for download in a few days. The Google Play Store and Apple App Store guidelines must be carefully reviewed prior to launch, and page screenshots, a marketing release strategy, and a description must be ready. After downloading, the stores review all the data regarding the project's applicability and make a decision regarding whether or not to publish the application. Post-release assistance is also crucial, though.

The server needs to be tested to make sure it can handle the load, handle errors quickly, and has enough disc space available. It is advised to conduct research to enhance the application: study customer reviews and refine them based on them. release updates and expand functionality.

Making an app versus creating a website

An app is a software programme that runs on a device, such as a smartphone or tablet, whereas a website is a collection of web pages accessed via the internet. While apps are installed on a device and run natively, websites are typically made to be viewed in a web browser.

Both websites and apps use different building technologies. Apps are typically created using programming languages like Java, Swift, or Kotlin, whereas websites are typically created using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. While app development entails designing for particular device resolutions and screen sizes, web development typically entails creating a responsive design that adjusts to various screen sizes.

To Sum Up

In conclusion, creating websites and apps can be a difficult but rewarding process. Both involve developing digital experiences that cater to the needs of users, but they call for different methodologies and technologies.

Making a collection of web pages that can be accessed online is the process of building a website. Websites must be created with responsiveness in mind, which means they must adjust to various screen sizes and be mobile-friendly. Typically, web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are used to build websites.

An application that runs natively on a device, such as a smartphone or tablet, is created by building an app. Apps must be made to function properly on a variety of screen sizes and resolutions of devices. You may contact us, DesignLab, in case of any queries related to our services.

New Trends and Strategies in Marketing

 

We reserve the task of foretelling the future for clairvoyants, but we can already examine and assess recent and forthcoming trends in digital marketing. Are you enquiring?

Some of the upcoming digital marketing trends for 2023 have been selected by DesignLab to help you grow your company and outperform the competition. Remember that these forecasts are based on current marketing trends. The timeless, tried-and-true golden rules are something you should never lose sight of.

However, the new trends offer a fantastic chance to distinguish your brand and remain competitive. The earlier you catch on, the better your chance of being discovered.

1. The use of influencers in marketing will become more widespread

In 2022, influencer marketing really took off, and we forecast that this trend will continue into 2023. Why? 89% of marketers who use influencer marketing will increase or keep their investment in it in the upcoming year. Additionally, 17% of marketers intend to make their first investment in it the following year.

Promoters on social media with a smaller audience are known as micro-influencers, typically with thousands to tens of thousands of followers. Despite having fewer followers, they frequently post more powerful content because there is more engagement. These influencers have also discovered a niche in their industry, which is why they have begun to contribute more to the conversion of leads, audience engagement, and brand awareness.

Contrary to difficult-to-reach celebrities, audiences of micro-influencers are actually more likely to trust their advice because they are still regarded as "everyday" people.

2. Content will be kept brief by video marketers

Short-form video has revolutionised the marketing industry, and we believe it will continue to do so in 2023. A startling 90% of marketers who currently use short-form video plan to increase or maintain their investment in it in the upcoming year, and 1 in 5 marketers expect to use it for the first time in 2023.

While long-form videos can give audiences a lot of detail and information about a product, brand, or service, B2C and B2B marketers have discovered that short-form videos are actually much more effective at getting to the point.

In addition to using less bandwidth, short-form videos are better suited to online audiences' quick attention spans across a range of demographics. It is probably for this reason that platforms like TikTok, Reels, and, in the past, Snapchat, have seen rapid growth and marketing interest.

3. Social media will be used as a tool for customer support

Although using social media as a tool for customer service is still relatively new, this trend is picking up speed quickly. So much so that 15% of marketers plan to try it for the first time in 2023, and more than a quarter of marketers already use direct messages (DMs) to provide customer support.

This trend's emergence coincides with the expansion of e-commerce features on many social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. Customer service on these platforms will therefore become even more important.

It's also important to note that customers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, prefer to communicate with brands via direct messages. In the past three months, 20% of Gen Zers and almost 25% of Millennials, according to HubSpot's 2022 Consumer Trends Survey, have contacted a brand on social media for customer service.

4. More companies will use SEO to increase search traffic

As marketers, it is our responsibility to make sure that both our websites and content can be found, particularly on Google, which can generate both long-term and short-term traffic returns. Even though SEO is not a new concept, contemporary marketing strategies are increasingly incorporating its tactics.

SEO comes in third place, behind influencer marketing and short-form video, when it comes to the trend that marketers will spend the most money on in 2023. Additionally, with a slight increase from the previous year (84%), 88% of marketers who have an SEO strategy will boost or maintain their investment in 2023.

All opportunities for search optimization increase in importance and demand as a result of SEO strategies. As Google's algorithms have developed, SEO has grown to be much more than just producing straightforward posts that respond to straightforward search queries. Brands are now spending money on SEO specialists who can assist them with everything from search insight reports to multimedia optimisation.

5. The importance of mobile optimisation will increase

Customers are using mobile devices for an increasing amount of time. In fact, mobile devices, including tablets, account for more than half of all yearly website traffic.

Mobile-optimized digital experiences will be even more important to take into account as a business owner who markets to these fast-paced, highly connected generations as millennials and Gen Z audiences continue to increase their purchasing power.

Additionally, mobile experiences are crucial for other important marketing strategies in addition to brand websites. For instance, 56% of email-using marketers are concerned with providing subscribers with mobile email experiences.

6. More businesses will give social responsibility a higher priority

For instance, 40% of Millennials and 50% of Gen Z'ers want businesses to take a position on social issues like climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, gender inequality, and racial justice. Companies' purchasing choices are significantly impacted when they speak out about these issues.

In light of all of this, businesses have started to change their social media strategies to concentrate more on inclusive initiatives, promotions, and offerings while also highlighting causes or missions they support. Even though it might not result in immediate sales, being socially conscious is still considerate and productive.

7. Sales and marketing teams that work together will succeed

The need for collaboration between the sales and marketing teams grows as 2023 approaches. When these teams are working together, marketers are better able to understand their customers' interests, pastimes, and demographics. However, when it doesn't, it causes a flurry of issues for all parties concerned. Most significantly, it's more difficult to share and access data across teams, which affects 1 in 5 marketers today.

Uncomfortably, only 31% of marketers claim that their sales and marketing teams work well together. It should come as no surprise that nearly half of marketers will change their 2023 goals to emphasise sales and marketing alignment.

8. Experience-based advertising may return

Audiences can enter an immersive experience through experiential marketing campaigns, which are frequently offered in-person or through AR and VR platforms.

Immersive experiences like these were entertaining, effective, and very shareable on social media, but they encountered difficulties in 2020 and 2021 as a result of the global pandemic, which forced businesses, public places, and entire nations to close their doors to the public.

Additionally, fewer small brands have made investments in digital experiential marketing because creating a branded AR or VR experience is a high-budget wager that can also depend on audiences having tools like AR or VR headsets or the most recent smartphone technology to access the content.

9. For expanding brands, inbound marketing will continue to be a best practise

It is incredibly wise to embrace inbound marketing in this era of digital transformation. Due to the unprecedented change that has occurred in the last two years, outbound marketing strategies are now even less successful at attracting prospects and leads.

Inbound marketing has emerged as one of the most effective strategies as work-from-home (WFH) business practises transition from in-person to hybrid models. For instance, the COVID-19 mandate has led to a sharp increase in virtual events as marketers scramble to pique consumers' interest.

10. The marketing industry will adopt virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) slowly

In the beginning, we had high expectations for VR and AR in the marketing sector. 35% of marketers used AR or VR in their strategies back in 2021, and of those marketers, almost half intended to increase their investment the following year. It might, however, drop down the list in 2023 as fewer marketers are expected to spend money on it. Over a quarter (27%) of marketers say they won't be using VR and AR in the upcoming year.

Due to expensive equipment and bulky headsets, marketers have generally been slower to adopt this trend. However, this might change as more people have access to VR headsets and AR applications.

11. More companies will try native advertising

You invest in native advertising when your brand pays to have content featured on a website owned by a different party. Native advertising is intended to blend in and spread awareness of your brand to a new audience, as opposed to traditional advertising, which is made to interrupt and stand out.

Consumers are more likely to consume native ads because they don't "feel" like traditional advertisements; in fact, native ads are viewed over 50% more frequently than banner ads.

Examples of native advertising can be found in search engine results, social media, content recommendation systems (those links to various other content you can click at the bottom of the page to read more on or related to the topic), or in campaigns.

12. The best marketing content format will continue to be video

In 2022, video dominated the marketing sector; we anticipate that trend will continue in 2023. Why? because marketers intend to spend more money on short-form video than any other trend in 2019. Additionally, a staggering 90% of marketers who use short-form video now plan to increase or maintain their investment in 2023.

Due to expensive resources and production, video creation and marketing strategies in the past were constrained. It's much easier to access now. Video is now easier to integrate into your marketing strategies thanks to lowered cost barriers.

A smartphone, like an iPhone, and reasonably priced editing software are all you need; you don't even need to hire a production team or marketing agency.

 

Make Better Progress Using Marketing Trends

You're current—for the time being. Your company won't lag behind as long as you keep an eye on current marketing trends and are always open to change.

Don't worry if the thought of keeping up with all these insights makes you feel overwhelmed. In the upcoming months, DesignLab will regularly release marketing strategy research articles with information from hundreds of marketing professionals, and we'll keep updating this post as new trends appear. You can get in touch with us if you have questions about our services.

Insights and Strategies for Effective Marketing

 

In the long run, marketing has been the true essence in the uplifting of any Organisation. While there are many other factors that help a business grow, marketing has been proven to be its foundation because it gives it the awareness and global reach it needs.

An effective marketing plan can act as a crucial road map for any company, whether it is a large MNC or a small start-up. Organizations can market their companies, target the right kinds of customers, and allocate their resources effectively by creating a cogent and well-thought-out marketing strategy while also preserving the company's reputation.

1. Use your content to educate

Using content to educate entails giving your audience useful and educational information that can advance their knowledge of a subject or enable them to learn something new. A variety of content, such as blog posts, articles, videos, podcasts, and social media updates, can accomplish this.

It's crucial to think about your audience and their level of subject knowledge when creating educational content. Using simple language and examples, your content should be accessible and easy to understand for your audience.

Building trust with your audience through educational content can help you establish your authority and expertise in your field, increase website traffic, and increase sales for your company.

2. Customise your marketing communications

Making your communication more specific to your audience's needs and preferences is known as personalising your marketing messages. This can be accomplished using a variety of strategies, including audience segmentation, personalised messaging, and the use of dynamic content.

By separating your target market into distinct groups according to demographic, behavioural, or other traits, you can segment your audience. You can create marketing messages that resonate with your audience by being more targeted and relevant and by understanding the particular requirements and preferences of each group.

By addressing your audience by name and using language and messaging that are specifically tailored to them, you can use personalised messaging. This can help create a more personalised and engaging experience for your audience, which can lead to higher engagement and conversions.

3. Let the data inspire your imagination

Letting data drive your creativity involves using data to inform and optimise your creative strategies and campaigns. This may entail looking at metrics like customer behaviour, conversion rates, and engagement rates to spot trends and gain insights that can guide your creative choices.

Instead of relying on conjecture or assumptions, you can make decisions that are well-informed and supported by data by using data to guide your creativity. This can assist you in developing campaigns that are more compelling to your audience and produce results.

Start by determining the key metrics and KPIs that are most crucial to your business if you want data to drive your creativity. This may involve statistics like click-through rates, conversion rates, or earnings.

4. Spend money on an original study

Investing in original research entails creating your own studies and surveys to collect particular information on your target market or industry. This can assist you in gathering fresh, insightful data that you can use to guide your marketing and business strategies.

By conducting original research, you can position yourself as a thought leader in your industry, build credibility and trust with your audience, and create valuable content that can be used for marketing and PR purposes.

Selecting a subject or issue that is pertinent to your field or intended audience is the first step in investing in original research. This might be an issue that has not yet been resolved or a subject that has not yet been thoroughly investigated.

5. Publish new content

Updating your content involves regularly reviewing and refreshing your existing content to ensure that it remains accurate, relevant, and valuable to your audience. This can involve revising statistics, updating out-of-date data, and improving content for both users and search engines.

You can enhance your content's functionality and visibility in search engine results by updating it. By giving your audience the most recent data and insights, it can also help you better engage with them.

Start by conducting a content audit to determine which pieces of content need to be updated before you update any existing content. This can apply to product descriptions, landing pages, and blog posts. After that, go through each piece of content and make any necessary updates.

6. Increase the number of guest blog posts you accept

Reaching out to other websites and blogs to write content as a guest author will increase your opportunities for guest blogging. This can help you become more visible, connect with new audiences, and position yourself as a leader in your field.

Start by identifying websites and blogs that are pertinent to your industry or target market in order to increase your guest blogging opportunities. Look for websites that are well-liked and frequently interact with their visitors. After that, get in touch with the website's owner or editor and propose a guest post.

When writing your pitch, be sure to emphasise your area of expertise and give a brief summary of the subject you plan to write about.

7. Streaming

Through a platform like Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube, live streaming entails providing your audience with real-time access to live video content. Live Streaming is a potent marketing tool that can help you connect with your viewers, increase brand recognition, and generate leads for your website or company.

You must select a platform that is appropriate for both your audience and your business before you can begin live streaming. Popular platforms with built-in livestreaming tools include Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. You must set up your livestream and advertise it to your audience after selecting a platform.

Make sure to select a topic for your livestream that will be interesting and relevant to your audience.

8. Join or host a podcast

Creating or taking part in audio or video content for distribution on websites like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube constitutes hosting or joining a podcast. Using podcasts as a marketing tool can help you connect with your audience, increase brand recognition, and position yourself as an authority in your field.

You must pick a subject that interests and is relevant to your audience before you can begin hosting your own podcast. You might want to think about interviewing subject-matter specialists, covering recent news or trends, or offering educational material. You must decide on a format and set up your recording equipment after selecting a topic.

9. Set up automated email marketing campaigns

A series of pre-written emails that are automatically sent to your subscribers based on their behaviour or actions is what setting up automated email marketing campaigns entails. This can speed up manual email marketing efforts, increase conversions, and help you forge stronger bonds with your audience.

You must select an email marketing platform with automation features in order to set up automated email campaigns. Once you've decided on a platform, you must write a series of emails that are pertinent to and interesting to your audience. You might want to think about sending welcome emails, follow-up emails after purchases, or reminders for abandoned carts.

10. Consider voice technology now

Optimizing your website and content for voice-enabled devices like Amazon's Alexa, Google Home, or Apple's Siri is one aspect of getting ready for voice technology. A wider audience can be reached by optimising your content for voice search as more and more people use voice assistants to conduct informational searches and make purchases.

You must take into account the distinctive features of voice search in order to get ready for voice technology. Voice search is typically more conversational and question-based than text-based search. You will therefore need to produce content that is optimised for both long-tail keywords and natural language.

Finally, the channels and activities you include in your marketing mix should be determined by your marketing strategy in order to reach your target audience. Print, radio, and television are examples of traditional media, as are digital media like social media and mobile apps. You can get in touch with DesignLab to have your marketing needs catered to.

Building Better Websites and Apps with DesignLab

 

The guidelines for developing mobile applications have changed significantly in recent years. New features have emerged with the newest mobile app trends, from AR to machine learning to IoT attributes, from design simplicity to AR.

While some mobile application features are quite dull and redundant, others are helpful, simple, and entertaining. Given the abundance of mobile applications available on the market, DesignLab brings to you the distinctive features and flawless design elements that set the best apart from the rest.

1. Include Push Notifications

Superior to emails and more successful than any other notification methods. Push notifications give you the opportunity to interact directly with your audience and provide them with the features they want to use in your app. Push notifications can be anything the users prefer—a brief, sweet text message, a graphic, or a combination of the two. The best feature is the ability to customise push notifications for each user. If your app serves the food industry, for instance, you could send a push notification that combines elements of users' preferred foods.

2. Excellent image resolution

Your app must run more quickly, but it must also have high-quality image resolution. If your app doesn't have the required image resolution, there's a good chance that it will discourage users from using it, which will eventually cost you customers. Therefore, high-quality image resolution should always be the first and most important requirement.

3. Adding a Search Feature

Add an advanced search function so that users of mobile apps can find and browse the content they need. This has a significant impact, especially if the app has a large content database; it soon becomes difficult for users to access without difficulty. Top-tier apps enable users to conduct keyword and phrase searches for pertinent content using the advanced search feature and the search box. All users can access the app's content thanks to the search feature.

4. Include the Use of Social Media

Sharing on social media is no longer just for photos. The majority of apps now integrate social media so that users can communicate and work with others whether or not they are using the same app. Since more users sharing their content will increase their reach and growth, app owners also benefit from integrating social media into their apps. The key is to make social media integration seamless, and each app page has social sharing buttons right on the side.

5. Utilisation of Responsive App Design

It is quite robust to design mobile apps for every screen size and resolution. This issue is solved by responsive app design, which enables the app to adapt to any screen size and resolution of small smartphones as well as larger tablets. Additionally, some smartphones have screens that are roughly the size of tablets. Look at the most recent iPhones and their rivals; they are big enough to be referred to as mini-tablets. Users will have the best possible app experience regardless of the device they are using by incorporating responsive app design during app development.

6. A straightforward layout with uncluttered components

The design of mobile apps has evolved into a clever aesthetic exercise where effective use of white space is crucial. No matter how complicated the app's logic may be, the user experience design should be simple and clutter-free, with each element given the right amount of space, context, and size. Users of mobile apps are constantly looking for apps that are simple to use and navigate. Here, a straightforward UI/UX design can assist businesses in succinctly describing the app's navigation structure, workflow, and guiding principles to their target market.

 

7. Observance of GDPR Requirements

The General Data Protection Regulations, or GDPR, are designed to safeguard the personal information of EU citizens. Therefore, it is advised to make your app GDPR compliant if it is intended for users who reside in EU member states. To comply with legal requirements, all software must process personal user data in a manner that is both private and secure. Any app feature or solution that might obstruct compliance measures should be removed.

 

8. Use attributes from machine learning

Data science is now widely used in a variety of business sectors. By incorporating data science models into business apps, it would be possible to meet the demand for precise demographic targeting and timely predictions, both of which are necessary for boosting sales. Additionally, by incorporating machine learning attributes, you will be able to examine the behaviour patterns of your target users, which will assist you in creating a successful outcome for your app. In essence, if you're planning to create an e-commerce application, this feature could be very useful for you.

9. Multisystem Integration of Augmented Reality

In recent years, augmented reality has left a lasting impression on the audience. Mobile users want to experience augmented reality (AR) in a variety of avatars and applications, so developers are constantly exploring new ways to use ARKit for iOS and ARCore for Android to achieve this. The blending of the real and virtual worlds is advantageous for various industries that are attempting to offer users with high expectations new experiences.

10. Broad Cross-Platform Support

Working with cutting-edge cross-platform app development frameworks that guarantee the best possible use of development time for the two most popular platforms is advised for all mobile app development companies. The code-sharing is perfectly suited to both of them, and cross-platform app development ensures native performance for each of the two platforms. Because of this, developing cross-platform apps for multiple mobile platforms can be more affordable.

11. Strong security issues

The creation of mobile apps for a variety of industries, including the HIPAA-protected healthcare sector, depends on strict data integrity and confidentiality requirements. Every mobile app must include strict security and data integrity measures due to the massive compliance requirements for data security and the recent IoT trends. Each of these apps must have secure customization and communication features, which are significant both now and in the near future.

12. Incorporating More Powerful, Robust Ecosystems

If a mobile app is part of a larger ecosystem, it can contribute to a wider world and serve more purposes than it could on its own. This maxim serves as the foundation for the Internet of Things, which seamlessly integrates various types of hardware and software. Mobile apps play their intended role and assist in playing a larger role in the ecosystem by being integrated with various systems that are a part of a larger ecosystem. In particular, with the aid of beacon and BLE technology, alignment with modern technologies, standards, and protocols aids in establishing interoperability through mobile apps.

13. Numerous touch features on mobile screens

Each and every mobile user wants to be able to conduct their business without using a keyboard and mouse. Mobile devices are operated by touch, so it is advantageous for businesses to concentrate on developing apps that enhance the touch interface through taps, swipes, and gestures. For maximum interactivity and the success of the app, mobile app designs must be focused on the touch experience itself.

14. Include Provisions for User Feedback

Most users of mobile apps are eager to share their opinions and provide feedback on their experiences with the app. Giving mobile app users the option to submit instant feedback removes the need for technical support and any other delays in getting their feedback to you.

15. Make it possible for apps to function offline

Make it possible for your mobile app to function without an Internet connection. In addition, one must address the issue of data security at the same time. Even though sensitive information shouldn't be stored on mobile devices, some work should be able to be done offline. Depending on the needs and goals of the app, developers and engineers must decide where to store data and functionality.

By experimenting with features, app flows, and other UI-based changes in DesignLab testing, you can gradually improve your in-app user experience while increasing your engagement, conversion, and retention rates. Consequently, while having a fully functional mobile app is undoubtedly the first step in engaging with a completely new audience segment, ongoing optimisation will help you drive real improvements in your key business metrics. DesignLab is a powerful mobile experimentation platform that equips you to create compelling user experiences and launch world-class features while minimising risk. If you're unsure, get in touch with us to learn how you can use our resources to improve your app or website.

Want to go to the shark tank? You need innovative branding

 

Today's businesses face much greater challenges than they did even five years ago. Business trends are constantly evolving, affecting everything from consumer preferences to industry standards. As a result, both big and small brands must adapt to the shifting competitive landscape. To survive and compete with rivals, one must not only concentrate on offering high-quality goods or services but also run effective branding campaigns.

In the current market environment, branding your company can be challenging. With our list of creative branding tips, we aim to make it simpler for you. But first, let's take a brief look at what branding entails and how the idea has evolved over time.

Top Creative Branding Advice for the Achiever

The act of giving a company a specific design or symbol in order to advertise its goods and services is referred to as branding in the dictionary. While this used to be a fairly accurate definition of the term "branding," it is no longer appropriate. Many people still only care about a brand's visual identity, such as its name, logo, packaging, etc. Although they remain a crucial component of any branding strategy, the concept has significantly changed over time.

Today, branding encompasses the entire process of identifying, developing, and coordinating the accumulative traits and deeds that influence stakeholders' perceptions of a brand. The goal is to market your company in a way that sets it apart from the competition. Even though it may seem straightforward, developing a modern, cutting-edge branding strategy calls for solid market knowledge and expertise. Here are some practical tips for doing it.

1. Maximise social media usage

Our lives have become so much more exciting, fun, and eventful as a result of social media. In addition to uniting people on a global scale and fostering a sense of community, it provides a powerful platform for businesses to advertise. Instant communication with the audience is made possible, and social media influencers, who are frequently available for brand collaborations, were born as a result. There are many ways to maximise social media for your brand, from running a referral programme to sharing stories on Instagram. Try one or more of these creative branding ideas.

2. Consider a referral scheme

A referral programme is a word-of-mouth marketing technique that rewards your current and past customers for referring your goods and services to others. Whether the offer is a freebie, a limited-time discount, or a free item with every purchase, if it is compelling enough, people will promote your brand.

3. Work with a different brand or account

Working together with a company or account that is similar to yours but isn't a direct rival can be beneficial. A larger and broader audience, increased social media buzz, increased brand value, and (occasionally) shared resources are some of the biggest advantages of brand partnerships. Start a joint project or simply share relevant posts on your social media accounts to promote each other.

4. Make original videos

Try making creative videos instead of your usual static Facebook and Instagram posts. Video not only conveys your message more effectively and more engagingly, but it also gives you more time and room for creative expression. They not only make your content more interesting and engaging than static content, but they also help your audience learn more about your goods and services and increase brand awareness.

As viewers discover and find value in your videos, they'll also share them on social media, boosting web traffic and engagement rates. You can always seek the aid of a reputable branding agency if you find it difficult to produce creative video content.

5. Check out Facebook Live

Thanks to their high rate of engagement, ability to hold viewers' attention, and improved SEO rankings, videos have unquestionably come of age in this generation. Users can share live streaming videos using their smartphones or other mobile devices with Facebook Live Videos. All Facebook users who have an active profile or page can use this feature. Facebook has introduced an algorithm that elevates videos in the news feed so they are visible naturally, taking into account that viewers are more interested in watching videos than images.

Additionally, consumers can interact with your brand in real-time with live videos (unlike images), building brand loyalty and trust. Live Facebook videos are spontaneous and unrehearsed in contrast to your regular product or service videos, which provide tidy and detailed information about your company. They foster a more personal connection and improve client retention. Facebook is unquestionably the best platform for going live and promoting your business, with more than 2.2 billion monthly active users and 8 billion video views each day.

6. Consult chatbots on Messenger

Client communication must be prompt when it comes to business sales, marketing, and support. Furthermore, chances are that if you take too long to respond to customers (for whatever reason), they will lose trust in you, become impatient, and switch to another company. This is precisely the situation where AI-powered chatbots are helpful because they can automate customer communication and greatly enhance the support process.

Studies show that 35% of consumers want to see more companies use chatbots to improve customer service. Instant response, consistent responses, one-on-one client conversations, multilingual chat, and 24/7 accessibility are some of the biggest benefits of using chatbots. Use your chatbot to provide informative content about your business to your followers, or switch it into a personal shopping assistant with personalised product and service suggestions.

7. Choose "YouTube Marketing"

There are many different channels and platforms available for digital branding. While it's fun to explore Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, having a YouTube channel is the best way to market your videos and boost user engagement. Everyone enjoys watching videos. Videos are a compelling aspect of our lives, from movies and Facebook videos to subscription-based streaming shows. Videos should be a part of your creative branding strategy given their rising popularity. The following are some of the main advantages of YouTube marketing.

8. Adhere to minimalist styles

Forget the times when company logos, banners, and brochures needed to be colourful and have ornate lettering. Nearly all well-known brands, from Puma to KFC, are implementing clear, straightforward designs for both their print and digital promotions. Even startups are following in their footsteps and swearing by a simple, universally appealing brand image. It enables you to present your goods and services to the audience without being excessive. The term "minimalism" describes the use of only the most fundamental visual components, such as a straightforward sans-serif font and a limited colour palette.

For instance, Burger King's rebranding strategy now takes on a more understated tone. While the previous logo was louder and more colourful, the revised version uses only two colours (red and orange) with a simple design.

9. Create an instant tweet

With the help of the unique tool known as Twitter Moments, you can make slideshows, or "Moments," from various tweets. This feature is mostly used to tell stories, disseminate news, or compile a list of favourite Tweets. Use customer testimonials in your branding tweets or include links to blogs that discuss your goods or services to boost credibility and influence. Additionally, you should make a Twitter Moment to show your followers what is happening at an event you are hosting or at a seminar you are attending. This will pique their interest and make it easier for them to relate to your brand.

For instance, you could make a demonstration video of your goods or services and save it through Twitter Moments so that anyone visiting your profile can easily see it. Be sure to incorporate answers to the frequently asked questions about your brand or product and also include some client testimonials.

10. Launch a TikTok contest

TikTok, a well-known social networking platform where users can share and edit videos, was introduced in 2018. Short comedic videos, lip-synching videos, and trending parodies are some of the most well-liked types of video content on this platform. A video can be optimised and made more searchable by adding a pertinent title, description, and hashtags after it has been created and posted.

The social media platform now uses hashtags in its "Challenges" feature, which invites users to participate in hot debates. You increase the likelihood that your video will be shared twofold when you take part in a challenge and post a pertinent video.

11. Use a listicle video to publicise content

Listicles are articles with a bulleted or numbered list that are usually organised around a single theme. List and article are combined to form the name "listicles." Videos with the list displayed as a slideshow with upbeat music playing in the background are referred to as video listicles in this context. Even though many may find this branding format to be stale and tiresome, it's still beneficial to use it in your company's digital marketing strategy.

For greater social exposure, convert your standard post into a listicle video and place it at the top of your blog section. You gain two advantages from a single branding strategy because well-known search engines like Google prioritise pages with embedded videos higher in search results than those without. Given that these videos are typically brief, viewers will be encouraged to click on them and perhaps even share them because they won't need to devote a lot of time to them.

12. Order a customised hashtag emoji

Although this approach isn't for everyone and is a bit pricey, the outcomes are unquestionably impressive. You want people to start talking about something big when you're announcing or launching it. Having a branded emoji appear in your posts is a great branding strategy, especially when used with the hashtag of your choice. When custom-branded emojis are used in advertisements, consumer attention increases by almost 10%. Consumer interest and emotional connection are increased by six times when combined with a promotional video.

13. Make use of TikTok advertisements

There aren't many ads on TikTok yet because the platform's ad feature is still relatively new. Less advertising means less irritability for viewers and a lower likelihood of "skip ad" clicks from TikTok users. Users are more likely to trust the opinion of a person they like and follow than a typical brand endorsement, which is a surefire advantage of this type of branding. TikTok is known for only displaying real, authentic content, which is another reason why this platform is effective for influencer marketing.

Business branding ideas have undergone a great evolution, just as everything does with time and changing environments. The marketing techniques that were effective even a few years ago may have lost their effectiveness today.

14. Set priorities

Prioritising the innovations that will help them maximise and expand their brand portfolio is the next behaviour brand innovators should incorporate into their strategy. Instead of getting sidetracked by microtrends that don't represent enough sales volume to make a significant difference, concentrate on brand-led innovation. Instead, brand innovators should pinpoint and concentrate on the bigger, "white space" opportunities, paying close attention to the size of the opportunity and the competitive environment. Consumers don't think in categories, so neither should your brand; keep that in mind. New entrants to the market may end up being your direct competitors due to adjacencies and other unforeseen circumstances.

15. Build

Now that you've anticipated customer needs and identified the most important growth opportunities, it's time to develop concrete ideas that capitalise on the opportunity and are consistent with your brand. Keep in mind that not all trends and movements suit all brands.

Concentrate on concepts that push the boundaries of categories while remaining pertinent. Avoid being "safe and simple" by developing and expanding your brand's product line using the frustrations of your target market as guidelines. Your brand innovations and initiatives should be distinctive from the competition.

Conclusion

Maintaining the identity of the brand (its essence, promise, and raison d'être) at all times, as well as consistency in the quality and in the codes of communication and style, is essential when putting an emphasis on innovation and market adaptation (although the message changes over the years).

For brands to keep their promise to customers, innovation is necessary. Innovation requires that brands have a purpose and meaning. The marketing department and the innovation department are linked by a brand. To connect the organization's strengths with the desires and needs of customers, innovation needs the brand as a compass. You may contact DesignLab for more information or any query.