For many enterprise owners, switching to mobile means an array of challenges. The complex nature of the enterprise applications does give the enterprise owners nightmares. Hence, in this article, we will touch upon the importance of UX and how we can get the UX right for enterprise-related mobile apps.
According to study on a mobile app usage, it has been stated that about one in four mobile users only uses an app once.
Another report by Forrester states that 85% of executives view mobile apps as the dominant interface of the future.
Let’s discover the top ideas on getting the right UX for mobile enterprise apps
UX is considered to be one of the most crucial elements to look into for enterprise app development. There are multiple practices when it comes to building a robust UX design. Here we are primarily focussing on 6 top ideas you should look into to get the right UX for the mobile enterprise apps.
1. Make Use of Native Components While Developing the Mobile App
The primary reason it is suggested to use native components is that it is easier for people to comprehend. For instance, when the application directs the user to navigate the screen, the user can sometimes get confused due to the complicated instructions. Hence, if the users understand the native UI and its elements, it will become more comfortable for the users to follow the instructions. They will understand the mobile application much quickly. The mobile developers can also add more transitions, animations, and automation as they enhance the overall look of the ‘Native‘ apps.
2. The Mobile and Desktop Users Are Different
When the mobile developers get their hands-on enterprise app development by expanding it to the mobile version, this version is known as ‘Taking Your Users for Granted.’ While developing a mobile app, always remember that mobile users are more task-oriented because they use their phones to accomplish a particular task, and they want to complete it swiftly. For example, if they feel like buying anything, they will visit any eCommerce site and buy.
Hence, the mobile app developers need to take note of the swiftness demand and build a mobile app keeping in mind the nature of the users.
3. Keep the Design of the App Simple
When a user downloads the app, they have some purpose in mind, and they want to fulfill the goal with the help of the app. Hence, if the users encounter any obstacle when using the app, they would get frustrated and spend less time than expected. The mobile app should also be free from the unwanted designs, features, and functions that clutter the app. The mobile designers should ensure that the app is as minimal as possible.
4. Functionality of the App Should Deliver Value
It is essential that after the enterprise app development process is over, the stakeholders must gain some value for it.
When the mobile app developers think of providing value, they should think of it in these terms – Does it help the users to read and make changes offline, or can they only operate the app online? What should be the minimum feature to meet the needs? Or What should be done to minimize data use and performance?
Another thing that comes to mind is the ease of use of apps, whether the user is happy or frustrated with the UI or UX of the app.
Ultimately, the greater the value users get, the higher will be the chances of them using the app on a regular basis.
5. Re-Work on the Consistency of the App
It is vital to have consistency in the app’s UI design, as this ensures that the users are making use of the same application across platforms. Consistency in the navigation systems brings consistency to the overall user experience.
Visually and functionally your application configuration should be consistent through the whole site or app. Android and iOS platforms are different, thus, when there is a difference in design on these two platforms then it is not much of a worry. But make sure that the difference is not too much.
Be consistent when choosing colors, fonts, layout, type of images, etc. when dealing with quality user experience. Suppose the mobile designers make use of a non-conventional design of the app – one which is different from the web view, this would not just hamper the app visibility & usability but also the app performance.
6. It is UX First, UI Second
When the mobile app designers create an enterprise user experience app, then the top considerations should be to include the apt back-end connectivity, performance, offline support, readability, and then user interface. The app needs to function well in accordance with the users’ needs. Hence, this is the reason why UX comes first and then UI.
7. Enhancing the search feature
When users come to your app, the main motive is to get to the product/information that they are looking for. If your users or customers can’t discover what they’re searching for on your site, then they should at least have the option to quickly search for it in the search bar. If the customers take time looking out for a search bar, then your UX isn’t adequate. You need to create a simple and efficient UX.
Utility navigation influences user experience design, while confusing or unclear navigation might take your users to other sources.
To eliminate such confusion, all that is required is good navigation and a search engine that helps the users in finding the desired product/information in a quick and easy manner. This will increase the quality of your app and will bring in more users.
8. Making Intuitive Navigation
Mobile apps and sites need to have more intuitive navigation than desktop sites so that it is easy for the users to have an idea and option to quickly move around the application or site. This can be accomplished through trendy and simple design patterns.
Utilizing icons like a thought cloud/chat bubble, a car or bike symbol to book a ride, etc. is significantly easier to understand by the users, is attractive, and is user-friendly.
When it is difficult for users to navigate or reach their destination, then there are high chances for them to leave the app or site and switch to another alternative.
Parting Thoughts
The success of enterprise app development is proportional to the liking of the users, i.e with good UI/UX, users will have a good impression and brand it as well. Thus, it is said to build an app that is simple, user-friendly, and meets the expectations of the enterprise to deliver the best with utmost satisfaction.
