Developers must change approach to match user expectations

Across industries, numerous organizations are taking on mobile devices as an essential part to their operations, meaning that they will need the tools to use this hardware effectively and reap benefits. However, because of the variations within the mobile market, this is easier said than done. In many instances, developers may choose to follow a native approach, making it necessary for the program to be reworked for each operating system. For a device line like Android, it will also be important to consider the requirements each piece of equipment will entail. As this process becomes more complex, developers will have to get a better handle on trends and understand how to create an app for overall optimal results.

With any app project, there are a number of things that can go wrong, including delivering a product rife with bugs and other issues that make it unusable. However, there are also some non-technical risks that can crop up during app development that can ruin a software effort. Forrester Research senior analyst Tyler Shields wrote in SD Times that the number one threat is inadequate developer incentives to code in security provisions. This is followed by lack of resources, leaving security out of the design, tacking on safeguards at the end and implementing protection without thinking about the end users. These factors can all lead to a significant deficiency in how much security is available in an enterprise mobile app. While each business will have its own considerations to make as far as how much safety is needed, the listed elements are essential for all app undertakings.

"Mobile application security success relies on a combination of people, processes and technology," Shields wrote. "There is no silver bullet that will result in a perfectly secure development organization. However, if enterprise development teams continue to overlook people and process risks, and only focus on the technology, there is little chance for improvement."

Factors every developer should take note of
Even if app creators work in completely different industries, there are a few fundamental considerations that all app builders must address in their projects. In many instances, user expectations have evolved from their preferences just a few years ago, FOX Business contributor Andrew Sosa noted. Employees are now looking for their managers to provide them with products that are similar to consumer software. This means that apps need to have friendly user interfaces, easy navigation and the tools that the staff will need to make their lives easier. Without these critical elements, workers will likely revert to their own programs.

By having end users in the project from the beginning, they can test the interface and usability, ensuring that any issues are appropriately addressed before deployment while also verifying that the product will be beneficial for user activities. Organizations can accomplish this by leveraging an agile development method, which constantly looks for stakeholder input throughout the process, ensuring that problems are mitigated on the spot. This type of flexibility will also be important when patching vulnerabilities in the future and provisioning employees with the tools that they will need to succeed as technology continues to advance.

"Users expect their apps to work correctly, quickly and consistently, starting from the first use," Sosa stated. "To please users, you need to test every component of your app that helps the user achieve any type of result, from calculations to the display of content."

App development is continually evolving, and it will be essential for management to keep tabs on what users are expecting from their programs. By doing this, app builders can create successful programs and help foster company innovation.