Add Value and Keep It Safe with Mobile Apps

Many different people have reached out to us with many different questions and concerns, but there are a few that everyone seems to be asking. We took the opportunity to interview Mikhail Chuprynski, Director of Business Development at Magora, a software, mobile and web development company. He answered a few of them and offered some insight into the work of bespoke business app development.

Mobile devices are here to stay. As a businessperson, you should not fear it, but embrace the enormous realm of possibility it offers you. Web and mobile application development and the creation of B2B apps are steps towards the future in every industry, and the convenience, efficiency and possibilities they can give your company are numerous.

Well, let’s talk shop. Are all apps made equal?

It’s an interesting point, that many people think an app is an app, but the truth is that to be successful, applications must be tailored to their users and their owners. You can’t expect a one-size-fits-all approach, so you must look at it like any business project and finds what kind of app would complement your unique business.

How can I market my app?

Your app is likely a solution to some insufficiency or problem in your industry. If people are talking about it, find that conversation and put yourself into it. A well planned marketing strategy can go a long way in getting downloads from people who will use your app for a long time.

Should I charge $0.99?

Are you going for lots of downloads? Then it should be free. You can use in-app purchases and advertising to generate revenue. Are you offering a dynamic set of services that changes every day, week or month? Maybe a subscription. Hate ads? Charge a one-time fee to download. Whatever you decided to do, experiment and see if you can’t find a good balance for you and your users.

Do I need an iOS or an Android app?

Ideally, both, of course. The markets and users are slightly different in their demographics and behaviours, so if you can get both, you get a better cross section of potential customers. Still, many budgets don’t allow this, so go for the iOS App Store if you must pick one. There is a lot more commerce going on with Apple devices.  Some people are put off by their stricter publishing restrictions, but that is not a problem for an experienced developer.

What about security?

Security is one of those things a lot of people never think about. The vetting process for the App Store that I’ve just mentioned is the main protection against vulnerabilities.  Both operating systems have their weaknesses, but far fewer problems slip through the cracks on iOS than on Android app downloads, so that’s another reason to choose the App Store.

Which companies should think about adding security and when?

Certainly anyone involved in payments and storage of sensitive information. Any time a third party is involved, that adds a new element of risk to a workplace. Many people see security as a bit of joke, which is why ‘password’ and ‘12345’ are such common passwords, but the consequences of bad security are very real, so companies and their employees should take it seriously.

What is one of the biggest threats around mobile security that maybe isn’t being talked about?

BYOD, which is ‘Bring Your Own Device’, and BYOA, which is ‘Bring Your Own App’. Someone thought that it would increase efficiency in the workplace by allowing employees to conduct business through the use of their personal devices and choose their own tools to do so.  There is something to be said for this, however, there is little to no review of which devices and apps are connected to a company’s systems, what they are sending and what they are receiving. More open policies are great on paper, but they open businesses up to some major risks.

How can you avoid leaking data during software development?

Sadly, no wall is high enough to prevent 100% of attacks. Nevertheless, you can create a strong defense to pre-empt hacks.  Strong passwords and encryption should be givens, but beyond that you can include tools that can review and manage device behaviour.  You can put a kill switch on a device that will block it if it gets lost or stolen, or if it’s too late for that, you can audit activity and bump anyone suspicious off the system.

Those are some pretty powerful tools and in the write hands you can create a strong cyber security team that you and your customers can trust. But you have to start early. In a way there is some military strategy behind it. Making a secure base is easy when you get to pour the foundation. In the same way, planning for security starts on day one.

An experienced mobile app developer knows these risks in and out. An agency can leverage their experience and expertise to built you a fortress that will protect your and your clients’ interests, ensuring continued relationships, reliable transactions and valuable tools for your industry.

If you are interested in creating your own B2B software, web or mobile application, or have some other inquiries related to apps creation and security, you can ask your question here or contact me via our site magora-systems.com.