The Mobile App ecosystem is a vast and extending network filled with different apps for all needs. Numerous apps are being developed and published on the app store and play store every day.
However, only a few get to the top position based on how useful and easy functionality could be. Mobile app development is an easy task only when each step of the development cycle is analyzed and appropriately framed to be successful.
Every minute step is essential for Mobile app development, and cutting corners may significantly impact the final product sustainability. Here, we’ll see the importance of mobile app deep linking and the essential steps that are not missed during app development.
Mobile App Deep Linking is a URI, uniform resource identifier. It connects to a particular page or the locations inside a mobile application. The primary purpose of deep linking is to offer related information requested to the user through e-mail, push notifications, social media, SMS, etc.
It fundamentally improves the user retention ratio and drives user engagement. In the absence of deep links, URLs will direct the users to the home screen alone and not to the particular content. It will leave the user hanging on the irrelevant page and eventually make them lose interest or rebound.
But, Deep linking has altered mobile apps’ interaction aspect and effortlessly bridges the gap between apps and websites.
Mobile App Deep Linking Models
Traditional deep linking: Directs users to a particular screen in your mobile app by utilizing your app’s URL. It works only when your app is installed on your mobile device; else, it will throw an error page.
Deferred deep linking: No app installation is needed on the user’s phone. The user clicks the link, and it directs them to the app store, prompting them to download it. Once the download is completed, the user can view the content intended.
Contextual deep linking: The user is directed to the specific content location. It even stores contextual information such as the link shared by whom, the source from where it’s shared, the location where the users wish to navigate, etc. This data offers a personalized experience to the users by giving them appropriate content, depending on their preferences.
Benefits of Mobile App Deep Linking
Drives Re-engagement – Scenarios where the users have installed the app but remain inactive for a long time, can be rectified by push notifications. Special deals or relevant content can be promoted to regain the customers’ interest and even turn them into active users.
Improves App Discoverability – In instances where your website is reeling in visitors, but your mobile app isn’t, then deep linking is the go-to option. You can go for a mobile app with deep linking installed, particularly for searches. It will enable your app to be displayed on the Google search page, thereby making it easier for users to find your app.
Increases App Downloads – With mobile app deep links, the content gets displayed on the search result page like your website. This link will direct users to install your app, drive more installations for your mobile app, and engage users in the existing platform.
Link Two Apps – deep linking makes it easy to set up a connection between two apps. If two or more e-commerce apps with various products, the user can be directed to your other app or vice-versa once they are done with what the current app has t offer. Linking apps help to increase the customer base, and revenue generation and also aid in cross-selling products.
Convenient Content Promotion – Deep links help to build links on the websites, social media platforms, and emails to direct to specific content in the mobile app. It helps in promotion by linking back to your deal or new launches that you wish your customers to see. So, instead of asking users to log in to your app, you can directly link them to your promotional content.
Some of the top brands that harness the power of deep linking are Zomato, Google maps, Ola, Uber, and many more. There are other important tasks involved while creating a mobile application that should not be neglected during the mobile app development process.
1. Market Research
The necessary groundwork for mobile app development is crucial. Research should be done about the target market, competitor analysis, and target audience before commencing the development process. Analyzing whether your idea fits well for the users in the current market trends needs to be determined.
If it is an already existing idea, your unique things must be given much attention to attract consistent active users. Also, define your budget and perform a detailed survey in the beginning stages to smooth the development process.
2. Wire Framing
Preparing a detailed scope of the work, developing a wireframe of your app, and drawing detailed sketches of the product are necessary. It can help check the usability issues
and make sure that the mobile app development process meets your requirements. It can be useful to take feedback from industry experts and rectify any loopholes at this stage so that changes can be incorporated easily.
3. Technical Feasibility Assessment
Checking whether the backend systems support the app functionality is important by accessing public APIs. Moreover, based on different platforms like iOS, Android, etc. there may be varied requirements. So, the technical limitations need to be analyzed during a technical feasibility assessment.
4. UI/UX
Delivering a great user experience is what all boils down to grabbing user attention. Varieties of layout design, navigation buttons, colors, graphics, fonts, styling, and other visual elements can be tried and tested.
It should be aesthetically pleasing and must include functionality, design concepts, timeline, budget, etc., for creating an engaging user interface. To have a first-hand picture of your app, it is best to develop static mockups.
5. App Development Testing
Testing the app for bugs, and incorporating features that are necessary and compatible with powerful smartphones is essential. The app is tested for compatibility, usability, interface checks, stress, security, and performance to ensure that users are happy with the interface.
6. Deployment & Maintenance
Here is where your app gets launched! App store standards and security requirements must be met to publish the app. After release on the App stores, regular updates and maintenance must be done.
Conclusion
Mobile app deep linking is beneficial in revenue generation and offers a superior user experience. When done correctly, it can increase the profitability of your mobile app.