Levi discussed the potential traps in developing a mobile application for the sake of development, and suggested applications should be created to solve a problem or address a user need.
As smartphones become more robust, applications must become more functional as well. Kevin indicated that one of the most important things a business can do is to alter their content to be mobile friendly. This includes simplifying design and ensuring that websites are fluid and frequently updated, rather than a static page with little draw to the client.
Developers must have a working knowledge of different coding languages to create apps that will operate cross-platform. When your business chooses a developer, it is important to first determine whether you need a “hard application” that works directly from the smartphone’s OS, or whether a mobile website will suit your needs. Creating an application that simply launches a mobile website is a simple way to join the mobile application movement, because it is cross-platform, cheaper to develop, and will use fewer system resources.
Duane pointed out that the Android OS offers the simplest development options, and that it is the fastest growing OS in the market. He also discussed the importance of market research to ensure your business is following the right trends in mobile development. A company can review their web analytics to see what OS their users employ.
The panel addressed questions from the audience. Each panelist discussed data usage and the potential for backlash in the market, such as the discontinuation of unlimited data plans in the next two years, smartphone security, open development (such as Android) versus proprietary development (such as Apple and RIM), and the potential for moving away from mobile (or even PC) applications in the future.
Technology First would like to thank the panelists for their time and expertise. Please join us next month for a discussion about the cloud’s viability for disaster recovery and business continuity plans.