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No doubt you’ve noticed all the social media platforms that are trying to compete with or replace Twitter. Developers see a vulnerable platform with millions of disgruntled users and recognize a huge opportunity.
Which got me thinking… how would someone go about building their own social media platform?
It’s quite similar to building an app, only on a larger scale with not just an app but also a full-fledged website experience.
So, let’s talk about how to build a social media app. Who knows, you could be starting the next social media space that solves the problems we see in the choices we have today.
- Identify an Unmet Need
Building a clone of a current social media app or platform likely isn’t the answer.
You’ve got to start at the beginning and identify an unmet need. Look for gaps in the market or areas where existing platforms fall short. This presents a unique opportunity for you to create a solution that addresses users’ desires.
To ensure success, focus on meeting this need for your early users. Your app has got to begin making users happy from Day 1 or it will never take off.
- Design an Intuitive Onboarding Process
User retention is critical for the growth of any social media app. Studies show that nearly a quarter of users abandon an app after just one use. To combat this, prioritize designing an intuitive onboarding process.
Simplicity, learnability, and efficiency are key factors to consider. Simplify the app interface, provide easy-to-navigate tutorials, and minimize the time it takes for users to complete tasks.
A seamless onboarding experience increases the likelihood of users sticking around and engaging with your platform.
Think of someone you know who has trouble using their phone, their computer or apps. Now create an onboarding experience that even they can easily navigate.
- Find the Right Audience
To make your social media app successful, it’s important to focus on getting the right people to use it. Social media works best when users feel connected, so aim to attract users who are interested in what your app offers.
Once you’ve figured out what people need but can’t find in other apps, think about which group of people would benefit the most from what your app does. Adjust your efforts to reach these people in the best way possible.
Use ads and create interesting content on places like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or Snapchat to get people’s attention. Think about the ages of the people you want to reach. For example, if you think your app is good for people between 18 and 24 years old, Instagram might be the best place to focus. But if you want to reach a wider range of ages, then Facebook could be better.
Also, think about how people look for things online. Use search engines like Google and write blog posts that can show up when people search for topics related to your app. Make sure your marketing plans match where your target audience spends most of their time online.
4: User Feedback is (often) GOLD
One important way to strengthen your app is by listening to what people who use it have to say.
User feedback is like a treasure map that guides you to hidden gems of improvement. Think of it as having a team of supporters who want your app to succeed just as much as you do.
Get a group of Beta users to help you test out your app and tell you what’s not working, what needs to be added and what they want to see more of. Listen carefully to what they tell you but be discerning about which bits of advice you choose to follow. You’re the one who must decide what your app will do and what it won’t do, because frankly it can’t do everything or please everyone.
And be ready to pivot if necessary. You might think you’ve built an app for friends to meet when it turns out you’ve created the perfect new dating app or even business contact app. It happens. Remember that Twitter was just supposed to be something for employees to communicate with. If they hadn’t pivoted, they never would have built a huge company that sold for major money to a super-rich dude.
- Believe in Your Platform
Facing challenges and obstacles is a normal part of creating something new, like your app. It’s crucial to always believe in what you’re doing, even when things get tough. This belief is like a strong foundation that helps you overcome hurdles, especially in the early stages of launching your app.
Maintaining confidence in your idea keeps you motivated and determined, making it easier to deal with problems that might come up.
Embrace the journey, stay resilient, and continuously improve your platform based on user feedback.
By following these steps, you might build the next popular app or even the next giant social media platform.