10 Tips to Choose a Killer App Idea

Ann
May 18, 2016

Mobile app development may look easy from the outside and it seems like some people become millionaires overnight. But the truth remains that it is a long journey. For starters, you have to think of a killer app idea and that doesn�t come easy. Getting an idea for a killer app is easier said than done! If you're to have any hope of success you really need to spend some time choosing a concept and then honing your idea. You need to check out the apps on the bestseller lists and take them for a spin to see what makes them tick. You can always tweak your ideas as you go along, but without the basics in place at the start, it's easy to lose your way. Perhaps you have some ideas, but you�re not sure if they�re going to bring in the revenue you�re looking for. Well, you�re in luck because we're about to share some killer strategies you can use to pick a winning app idea.

1. Decide on a Platform

Your personal preference for one mobile OS over another plays an important role. Before you decide to go down the iOS or Android platforms, try to avoid limiting the reach of your app. Aim to develop your app across as many platforms as possible. This gives you a bigger audience in the long-run; it will also save you sitting around twiddling your thumbs while you wait for your app to be confirmed by one platform. Each platform has its own benefits and drawbacks. Apple has the most rigorous approval process. But, if you can get in, it�s just great! Android users download more apps, but the price per app is lower.

2. Market Research takes Priority

Considering who your app targets is of utmost importance - if you don't do this now, you'll regret it later on. Look at the apps that are already available in your chosen area; make a list of what's good and bad about them, and learn from it. Concentrate on what people actually get out of the app - once you know what the aim is, it should be easier to pinpoint who you're targeting it at. Try for an app that works in different niche markets.

3. Same Idea but Different Approach

Just because an app has been made on an idea doesn't mean that you can't use it again! Check out some of the best apps in a particular niche. Your app does need to be innovative or useful. See that you bring something extra to the table, whether that's better functionality or a new feature. Map out exactly what you want the app to do before you get onto the development stage. You can start by improving an existing idea. For example, who says weight loss has to be so serious? A fitness app idea can be enhanced with gamification and social integration to make it more fun.

4. Figure Out Your Target Audience

You have a great idea an you�re pretty excited about it. But wait� it�s not time to step out just yet! You have to figure out if your target audience is ready to buy your app. You can see most smartphone users are on the younger side. Hence it�s generally a good idea to choose an app that appeals to people who are 25 to 35 years old. Give or take a few years. Do your research and make sure your target audience is ready to buy your app.

5. Generate Some Buzz

At the end of the day, you have to sell your app to make money. You don�t want to leave it to chance, so spread the word! If you are going to sell your app, people have to know about it. While some apps seem to be instant hits up the charts some apps are pretty much goners. It�s probably not just luck or an awesome idea; many hits have pretty slick marketing campaigns behind them. Many apps have found success with Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and other social media platforms. Experiment to figure out what works for your target audience.

6. The Magic of the User Interface

Your app should be fun and easy to use. Apps are supposed to entertain and help us out. If an app is confusing, people aren�t going to use it or recommend it to their friends. Don�t let your app fail because of a fixable design problem. A basic usability test can help you avoid potential issues. Run your app with people you know, get their input and act on it.

7. Stay on Top of Industry Trends

Always monitor the market place. The app world is moving real fast and people are always on the lookout for something new every time. If you can take advantage of the latest trends, you can get things right. You don�t necessarily have to start from scratch. You can just capitalize on what's trending now and incorporate your app idea onto it.

8. Build an App around an Event

Apps that are time-sensitive and seasonal are not always a good bet. But if you�re able to build a basic framework for an event app that can easily be translated into other similar apps, then it�s something worth exploring.

9. Innovate, Create, and Eliminate

Want your app to stand out? Just how do you figure out what features you should include in your app? It�s easy. With any idea you come up with, analyze each of the following elements: problem, solution, benefit, and feature.

  • What is the problem your target audience faces?
  • How can your app be a solution to this problem?
  • How will your app benefit the end user?
  • What features can you incorporate to make your app stand out?

Create an app that has legitimate answers for the above questions. And then, eliminate complications. Don�t go for an over-complicated app when the device is not designed to handle complicated tasks. Keep it simple!

10. Minimise it

It's always good to take the minimalist approach. Consider developing a main app and give users the option to pay for extra add-on features, instead of packing a ton of features into a single app. Most users may not be use all the features you intend to provide. Now, not all apps can be successful - that�s just the harsh reality. The decisions you make and the features you incorporate will make the app uniquely yours and give you a sustainable advantage over your rivals. Do you have an innovative app idea? We can help you expand it and build an app that sets you apart from your competition!

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