Let’s face it—everyone is digital and moving to mobile, so PR pros will eventually have to know how to develop mobile app concepts so they can think bigger about what to create. Richard Ouyang, associate director of digital strategies at Peppercom Digital offers here—in no particular order—the top 10 reasons why PR pros should learn about mobile application development.
1. Know good UX: Know what a good user experience is when it comes to how people interact with an app—there’s a science to design and flow.
2. Workflow logic: There’s a logic to apps that applies to business objectives, which in turn applies to app functionality.
3. Simplification: PR pros need to wrap their arms around how people consume information—people read headlines and look at pictures. Too much or too little information can be the difference between success and failure.
4. Know how it works, really: When it comes to all things digital, PR pros often have good ideas, but don’t think through how it comes to life. Understanding technical execution helps ensure your idea comes to life.
5. Connection to everything: Information is pulled from somewhere to appear on your phone. Understand how mobile connects to a Web site and how information is passed to apps and devices. It helps you give people what they want, faster.
6. Devices and software: iPhone? iPad? Nexus? Galaxy? Android? Honeycomb? Understand the implications of devices people use to access the app.
7. Features—what does it do again?: Understand what’s possible with mobile apps. Ask yourself what this app should do. For example, do you know how push notifications work with geolocation and Google Maps?
8. Definitions and process: Understanding mobile app development also means you understand platforms, operating systems and processes—like how long it takes to get into the iTunes app store or Android market.
9. Latest and greatest: Mobile apps are constantly updated, so keep your finger on the pulse.
10. You’re a user: As PR pros, we use mobile apps. It helps you understand the difference between a compelling app and an app that has no long-term value.
PR News Subscribers can read more about mobile applications increasingly prevalent role in PR in the case study: "Hot Spots App Tells SXSW Scenesters Where the Action Is and Proves PR Can Drive Mobile Development."