How to identify a good app?

Step 1: Developer’s description: Check the features of the app? Whether the app promises to serve the intended purpose? If yes, then move to the next step.

Step 2: Price consideration: Whether the app is available in the freemium version or elite one? If it’s paid, look for discount options. Most of the developers or publishers, with a bid to get more users, often resort to coupon or other pro-customer marketing tactics. However, don’t get lured by freemium, if it’s not serving the purpose well. Few app developers offer both free and paid version of an app. Compare their features and benefits well.

Step 3: App specifications: Check the specifications of the app: language, file size, device and operating system compatibility. Also check how old the version is, the latest update available, and what update, enhancements and fixes has the developer provided. Skip heavy apps or apps that demand more room.

Step 4: Download statistics: Check the popularity of the app. How many users have downloaded it, or how many times the app got downloaded.

Step 5: User reviews & ratings: This is a must-follow step. Check the reviews or ratings submitted or awarded by previous or existing users of the app on a store. If possible, seek recommendations from friends and family. Beware of fake app reviews available with untrusted portals as they are often a marketing gimmick.

Step 6: Content ratings: Content ratings determine the minimum maturity level of content in apps. The content ratings criteria include the use or display of sexual content, violence, drugs, gambling, and profane language.

Step 7: Post-installation support: If you need to download a critical productivity or collaboration app, whose downtime can affect your business and brand value, then do check whether it’s developer or publisher is ready to provide after-sales or post-installation support.

Warnings or Tips

1. Avoid downloading apps from unreliable application stores.

2. Visit the developer’s website or contact its helpdesk to get answer to any app-specific queries.