YC
Critiquing Startup Mobile Apps with Glide CEO
@ Y Combinator
09/02/23
Takeaways
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David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
Glide is a no-code tool that enables businesses to create custom software, emphasizing the importance of design in app differentiation.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
To design a well-designed mobile app, stick to the platform's standards and consider the context in which users will use the app, such as their environment and how they are holding their phone.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
The name of your app is part of the design; it's essential to choose a name that is not only catchy but also has an available domain.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
In mobile app design, ensure that interactive elements are large enough for users to tap easily, ideally larger than 60 pixels square, to avoid usability issues.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
Animation can enhance user experience by helping users follow changes on the screen, rather than experiencing abrupt transitions.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
The app Pearls, a modern medical reference for healthcare providers, is well-designed, contemporary, and raises the bar for industry standards, despite minor legibility issues.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
Bluedot, an app for finding EV charging stations, effectively leads users to their goal with a map interface, but could improve by indicating station availability to prevent user frustration.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
Duffl, a quick snack delivery app for college students, features an eccentric design that may appeal to its target audience, but the layout could benefit from larger images and clearer calls to action. The secondary text in the app should have more contrast to improve legibility; making it darker enhances user experience.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
It's important to balance gamification elements with the primary goal of completing a purchase; users should not be distracted by side quests.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
When designing an app, it's crucial to simplify the interface to avoid overwhelming users with too many options.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
The onboarding experience should be clear and engaging, but it can be improved by reducing unnecessary steps.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
During onboarding, avoid asking too many questions to prevent losing motivated users; streamline the process to get them into the app faster.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
The app's design should prioritize clear and large interactive elements to enhance user engagement and ease of use.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
In mobile app design, ensure that the most important interactions are easily accessible and not hidden behind subtle icons.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
If an app is primarily about content and lacks interactive features, it may be better suited as a website rather than a mobile app.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
The app should provide immediate feedback to user interactions; delays can frustrate users and lead to a poor experience.
DS
David Siegel
09/02/23
@ Y Combinator
It's beneficial to observe users interacting with the app to identify areas for improvement and enhance usability.