Search engine optimization experts will remind you of the critical importance of keywords and links when developing a website’s content. But if a company is working with a smartphone app developer to create an application that will dramatically increase its online profile, should SEO practices necessarily enter into the equation? You bet your boots they should. After all, there’s nothing that says that if a company publishes an application, everyone will know of its existence. This is where SEO enters into the equation.
To begin with, you have to look at the principal ways that application users find apps: app markets like Google Play and iTunes; search engine results; social media shares; and word of mouth. All of these, with the exception of word of mouth, rely heavily on search engine optimization to work. The following tips describe how search engine optimization experts can maximize the amount of exposure an application receives on each.
· Application markets (Google Play, iTunes, etc.) – Users of applications more often than not happen upon apps that they never knew existed through online markets like Google Play and iTunes. For the most part, this is no accident and is the result of thoughtfully crafted content that’s published to the app store by its developer. Search engine optimization experts can help skyrocket an app’s visibility by using relevant key phrases in the description paragraph of an application. Most app stores are also keyword enabled so that if someone seeking a banking application, for example, will be given a list of all relevant apps simply by keying in the word “bank" or "money.” The title that’s used to describe the application in the market can also greatly improve its ranking in an app store search. This works by not being vague and by giving an application an easily understandable and simply described title. In other words, forget frilly words and stick with the basic facts. For example, opt for "Main Street Bank Money Management App" over "Livin’ the High Life on Main Street." It’s also important to properly categorize the application to ensure it reaches its intended audience.
· Search engine results – Once a smartphone app developer has delivered the final product, it’s time to get it out there in circulation. One of the best ways of doing this is to make the app available in various online app outlets, but don’t forget the impact that giving the app its own website can have. This enables a company to create frequently updated, keyword-rich content that will drive traffic by internet users that may not even be looking for an application in the first place. Incorporating a blog into the promotion of an application is also a smart idea. By writing compelling content around a smartphone app, it’s possible to create great buzz and to give it increased visibility online.
· Social media shares – Blogging about an application and using SEO tactics like keywords and links also makes the application much more conducive to being shared via social media channels. If the company sponsoring the application writes a feature article or blog post about the app’s various functions, these articles can be easily shared via Facebook and Twitter, further increasing the app’s visibility.
Search engine optimization experts and smartphone app developers frequently work together as part of multi-faceted marketing campaigns. If you work for a company that’s in search of one or the other – or both – you can find a vast number of freelance professionals online via Artisan Talent. Visit www.artisantalent.com to learn more.
Vince F is a freelance writer available on WriterAccess, a marketplace where clients and expert writers connect for assignments.
