When you’re developing a mobile app there are a few commonly overlooked areas that can greatly impede the overall success of your mobile. Momentum is one of these crucial areas. Some developers simply consider an app finished once it completes it’s function. However, if it isn’t geared towards the user there’s a good chance they’re going to be frustrated when using your app, or even worse, abandon the app altogether.
In this article we’re going to explore why maintaining momentum is so crucial when building a mobile app. If you’re already sure you want to have a mobile app developed, then get in touch with our mobile app Jacksonville team today. For everyone else, let’s dive in.
What Is Momentum?
Momentum is the actual flow and series of steps a user takes when interacting with your mobile app. Some apps that are more time intensive have slower momentum, however this is usually necessary as more some elements need explaining. For instance, think about the last time you used any sort of tax software. Progressing through that software takes a very long time due to the constant explaining and instruction. However, if the software didn’t have that level of information you would be lost and confused.
You’ll want to ensure your mobile app progresses at a speed that makes sense for the user. If the email app on our phone took any longer than it did, I’m sure it would lead to frustration.
How Momentum Affects User Experience
You’ll want the momentum of your app to make sense for the series of actions that need to be completed. If every action on your app takes 1 second to complete, yet the final screen takes 5 seconds you’ll find that your app doesn’t flow very well.
This can actually end up leading to user frustration as they’re used to the sequence of steps moving very quickly.
Sometimes it can be tempting to create an innovative app. However, you don’t want to innovate at the expense of creating a poor user experience.
Understanding The Importance of Friction
Friction is the inclusion of certain elements to purposefully slow down your app. Essentially, friction is the decision to make your app move slower at certain parts. When done intentionally this can help to produce a better user experience.
You’ll want to be mindful of the elements of friction you introduce. Too much and it will impede the experience; too little and you’ll leave users confused about what to do next.
Including Momentum In Your Design
Hitting the sweet spot of momentum depends upon how mindful you are about the experience of your app. It can be helpful to do at least one round of usability testing. This will help to see if your expectations of how you think the mobile app will be used will line up with how it’s actually used.
Sometimes, you may have to introduce intentional friction into your design to improve the overall user experience. This may mean breaking up larger tasks into smaller tasks, or including more explanations or information.
I hope you’ve found this article helpful and have a greater understanding of the role that momentum plays throughout the development of your mobile app. If you’re looking for a way to bring your mobile app to life, get in touch with our Jacksonville mobile app development team. We’d be happy to answer any and all of your questions.
by Calvin Bryant
Digital Marketing Geek
