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Enterprise Mobile App Development in 2023: 6 Common Problems and How to Solve Them

Business enterprise mobile applications are revolutionizing how organizations operate. These apps essentially provide a platform for businesses to provide a service or product to internal and external users.

The development of such apps continues to advance as technology evolves. However, many limitations still exist in the journey toward consistent, high-performing apps.

What are these limitations? How can you solve any challenges that may arise when developing and managing these applications?

Let’s explore common problems with enterprise mobile app development and management, as well as how to solve those issues effectively.

1. Finding qualified developers

Problem: One of the biggest obstacles businesses encounter when developing an enterprise mobile app is finding adequately qualified developers. A mobile app developer should be versatile and technically skilled. However, working with mobile application platforms such as Android, iOS, and Windows requires different skill sets, which makes it challenging to find developers who can create a holistic mobile app solution that caters to all platforms.

Solution: If your organization cannot hire specialized developers for these platforms, or if you do not have the resources to hire and manage them, consider using development methods that are relatively consistent and streamlined. For example, cross-platform development tools such as Apache Cordova, React Native, and Flutter enable programmers to create mobile apps for multiple platforms using a single codebase.

Another approach is to partner with an enterprise app development company that has skilled resources, specialized tools, and successful testing methodologies that enable them to create mobile apps for multiple platforms simultaneously without compromising on quality and functionality. If you want to create a stellar application that meets your business requirements, then a third-party development agency such as Entrance is a good choice.

2. Higher user expectations

Problem: Modern mobile app users have higher expectations of a mobile app’s performance and user experience. Mobile device users are accustomed to applications that have straightforward functionality, easy navigation, and impeccable performance. However, with enterprise apps, the diverse expectations of different users can be a challenge. For example, customers and suppliers interact with the business differently, so you need to create an app that caters to each user’s needs, creating a personalized and unique experience in the process.

Solution: Instead of thinking about mobile apps from the organization’s perspective, focus on creating user-oriented apps. Carry out research to understand customer needs, design a personalized app solution, and collect user and market data to refine your app accordingly.

Create clear prototypes to demonstrate the app’s capabilities and then gather feedback to make necessary improvements. For maximum effectiveness, carry out this process before the official launch of the application.

3. High development costs

Problem: Another major challenge is the cost of developing an enterprise mobile app. Enterprise mobile app development is usually more expensive than consumer app development due to:

Enterprise mobile apps require complex features.
They involve third-party back-end system integration.
There are API-oriented design challenges.
Mobile device diversity and management requirements add complexity.
They demand multi-platform availability and development.

Solution: Businesses can adopt several approaches to reduce mobile app development and management costs:

Use cross-platform frameworks for multiple target platforms.
Develop a minimally viable product (MVP) version initially.
Outsource parts of the development to expert companies.
Focus on must-have features to prevent scope creep.
Aim for optimal code reusability when working with multiple platforms.

4. User adoption

Problem: Persuading users to adopt a new enterprise mobile application can be challenging. In many cases, users may not have access to relevant devices or services. Additionally, a reluctance to change can also be a significant factor, especially if people are required to spend time learning a new system.

Solution: To encourage user adoption, organizations can:

First and foremost, the app should provide business value and solve a genuine need.
Design a user-friendly interface that requires minimal training.
Offer support materials and training to assist with the transition.
Create a minimal viable product with core features, then gradually add other features based on user feedback.
Choose a robust content management system (CMS) that empowers users to make customizations.

5. Training and development time

Problem: Extensive training can significantly delay implementation, and users may forget much of their training before actual implementation. A steep learning curve can lead to frustration, reduced productivity, and incomplete adoption, especially when users need to change established workflows.

Solution: To address training challenges, organizations can:

Create systems with intuitive designs that require minimal training.
Provide guided assistance within the app, such as tooltips.
Roll out training in stages as users become comfortable with basic features.
Establish a support system for ongoing assistance.
Create documentation and video tutorials that users can reference as needed.

6. Security issues and concerns

Problem: Enterprise mobile applications often handle sensitive company data, making security a top priority. Without proper security measures, data may be susceptible to unauthorized access or breaches. Mobile devices can be lost or stolen, potentially exposing sensitive data, especially if the device isn’t password-protected or encrypted.

Solution: To enhance security, organizations should:

Implement robust authentication mechanisms.
Encrypt all data, especially when it’s being transmitted.
Regularly update and patch security vulnerabilities.
Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions.
Educate users about security best practices.
Perform regular security audits.

In conclusion, enterprise mobile apps have the potential to transform business operations, but they come with their set of challenges. By addressing these common problems with deliberate solutions, organizations can create mobile apps that not only meet business needs but also provide a smooth and satisfying user experience.