Hello,
This is such an important question and one that often gets overlooked.
It really depends a lot on the type of app and how you'll use it. For example, if you are creating a custom app, you should expect to perform at least semi-annual updates to keep it in sync with device upgrades - especially any security concerns. If you think about how many times in a year your phone asks you to update your operating system, that's about the number of times your app should be maintenanced. Each time phone and tablet makers update their operating systems, your app needs to be reviewed and possibly updated too. There may be times when no change is necessary, but it's worth scheduling a review or two every year to catch you up. If you build an app on a publishing platform, often the maker of the tool will take care of the updates for you so you can sometimes get a longer life out of the content that way.
Generally speaking, an app probably has about 2 good years in it if the content is pretty evergreen. After two years, technology and design trends will have evolved enough to make the controls feel clunky and the design out-of-date. Sometimes you can stretch this out through regular updates that keep the design fresh.
But, attention spans are another matter. Here's an article from earlier this year with some thought-provoking stats - 25% of downloaded apps are never opened, and another 26% are not used again after the first use.
https://blogs.adobe.com/digitaleurope/mobile-marketing/10-interesting-mobile-app-usage-stats/ So, creating an app with long term relevance is key. What content or features will pull your audience back to use an app again and again? Or, are you ok with a one and done relationship to the content?
Apps have a ton of pros and cons...I could go on and on. But, hopefully I've been helpful in answering your question. :)
Despi Ross
Founder & Lead Strategist
The Museum Playbook
317.260.7850
Original Message------
Dear Colleagues,
At Vizcaya Museum and Gardens we are in the process of App research and development. A question that has arisen relates to the lifespan of an App. Can anyone chime in concerning how they looked at App lifespan during the development process and how long any institution expected an App to last before major redesign or revision?
Thanks,
Mark
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Mark Osterman, Ed.D.
Guiding Programs Manager
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Miami, FL 33141
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