Whether you’re an entrepreneur with an idea for the next big app or an established business trying to make your mark on mobile, a successful app launch is key to long-term success. And that’s where a well-thought-out plan comes in handy. Fortunately, there are many best practices for crafting and executing an app launch that will set your new release up for success.
Start with a deep understanding of your audience. This goes beyond identifying their demographics; it involves developing user personas that allow you to visualize the unique needs, pain points, and goals of your target market. These personas should inform the design and functionality of your app. For instance, if your app is targeting busy professionals in their 30s, it should provide features that help them save time and simplify their workflow.
Aim for a quick, responsive launch. Users expect immediate app responsiveness, and a longer launch time can create a bad impression and discourage them from engaging optimally after your app opens. Tracking your app’s launch speed with tools like New Relic allows you to assess the performance of your app.
Prior to launch, promote your app with an email campaign that includes an exclusive beta release and a link to download it. A closed beta is a great way to build excitement, encourage feedback, and gather data on customer satisfaction before making your app officially available. Once your app is released, continue to track and monitor the metrics you’ve identified at launch. A regular review of these reports will allow you to forecast growth, identify opportunities for post-launch updates, and calculate the return on your marketing investments.