Self-improvement is a goal most motivated people possess, and one unmotivated people often desire. Whether you want to learn a new language, organize your thoughts or get into a regular routine, gamifying your method can help maintain motivation for longer.
Gamifying an app looks different based on the app’s intention but generally has most of these features.
- Engaging and enjoyable content.
- Regular updates remind the user to open and engage with the content. Useful for learning.
- Achievable goals to instill a sense of reward in the user and bring them back for the new dopamine hit.
- Personalization options allow the user to be comfortable in their account.
- Sharing progress on social media enables users to brag about their achievements with friends and even compete with them.
But making your app with these things in mind isn’t always suitable for a business. There are some crucial things to consider before adding these kinds of features.
Consider App Function
What is your app designed to do?
Few apps don’t have some kind of gamification to engage their users, but it may be inappropriate in some cases.
For example, cybersecurity learning platforms may gamify their learning content to engage the user and have them compete with others within the company. Productivity is regularly gamified with apps like ToDoist and Trello, keeping you on track with fun, gimmicky features.
Inappropriate times to gamify an app may come in the following ways:
- If your app is not functional or has speed issues, adding quirky features should not be your team’s priority, but resolving those issues.
- If the subject of your content is something sensitive or triggering for people (funeral planning, legal processes etc.), gamifying it may reflect poorly on your business and give the impression you’re not taking it seriously.
There are other reasons not to gamify, but it should be discussed with a diverse team to ensure all viewpoints are considered before attempting to gamify.
Consider Your Audience
Think about your target audience right now. Are they going to appreciate this kind of app, or do you think it would go down like a lead balloon?
An audience of older or technically illiterate users is more likely to be confused by any gamification features and more interested in the actual content or service your app is giving them. Gamifying, in this instance, could lose some customers or damage your brand reputation. Showing so clearly that you’re not developing with your audience in mind could push them to your competitors.
It could be that some gamifying could be implemented, but that should be based on market research and feedback from your customer base.
Speak To An Expert
Knowing whether or not to gamify your app can be complicated, and your best bet is to speak to an expert.
Get in contact with award winning app developers that have been in the business a while, and tap into their expertise within the market. They may think of things you haven’t, so their opinion could be critical in your process.
