How to Get the Most Out of App Store Optimization

 

App Store Optimization Best Practices When it comes to improving the store layout, user flow and overall functionality of an iOS or iPad application, one of the most influential factors is the App Store Optimization. It is the one most responsible for attracting in-app visitors, sales and revenue. But if you fail in optimizing your app for the best results, chances are high that you will not be able to realize the full potential of your app and even your efforts might just go to waste. To avoid such mistakes, you should follow the effective App Store Optimization Best Practices outlined below:

- Analyze the competition. Before you start the optimization process, identify the popular apps for the similar type of service or category in the market. Check if they have recently launched new versions and if they offer any kind of subscription options or are available through app stores. If so, then go for them. Else you can start analyzing your app based on the activities of the competitors.

- Look for inspiration. Take a look at some of the competitor's apps and note down their key issues or themes. Then make a note of the key functions that your app offers as this will help you better incorporate them into your product. You can also look up other similar apps in the marketplace and observe how they have approached each of these. Use the collected data to improve your own offerings and make them competitive enough to attract users and boost sales.

- Work with the store team. App Store Optimization Best Practices suggests that you work with the store team at least twice - once during the development phase and once while the app is live in the store. The primary reason for this is that the team knows what customers expect from your app. It is also beneficial as it gives you a chance to observe how your app ranks in various categories and over different devices. This will help you fine-tune the application and make necessary adjustments.

- Invest in test flights. Apps are developed based on specific business models. If you want to get a good idea about how your app performs, you can do so by giving it a trial run in the market.

- Think out of the box. App optimization Best Practices advocates that you think outside the app box. The app you develop may be very different from the one that your competitors are offering, but you need to make an effort to differentiate your offering. Consider features like in-app purchases, in-app payments, user ratings, user reviews, level of privacy protection, ability to customize the splash screen, and more.