Master Mobile Design

Follow Nick Babich as he explores solutions that will help you create great mobile experiences

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What makes a good mobile app? The answer is simple – design. Good design has a clear focus on key users’ goals and removes all obstacles from their way by bringing clarity into user interface. But creating good design isn’t an easy task. To help you create really great mobile user experiences we’ve prepared these design principles.

Make a great first impression

The first-time experience with your mobile app has to be good in order for users to engage further. There is only one chance to sway someone into becoming a user, because if you disappoint them the first time, you can be sure with 80 per cent confidence (goo.gl/EAcgBX) they won’t be back.

Make onboarding beneficial for your users

Onboarding is a process of learning what the product’s capabilities are and how to use it. It can include a variety of techniques to keep users engaged during their first time, but it should only be employed if it’s really essential for first use. The trick with onboarding is to show just what users need to know to get started – nothing more, nothing less. For instance, Duolingo uses onboarding as building an entry ramp for people to use the app: users are encouraged to jump in and do a quick test in the selected language (even without signing up).

Don’t ask users to rate your app soon after downloading it

Avoid interrupting users by asking them to rate your app if they’ve only recently downloaded it. Instead, wait until they prove to be repeat users and they’ll be more likely to rate your app and provide more informed feedback.

De-clutter your user interface