What is App Store Optimization and How to Ace It?

App Store Optimization (ASO) is the process of enhancing mobile apps for the aim of achieving a higher rank in the app store search results, as well as the top charts rankings. This process demands a thorough understanding of how the stores operate, the target user audience, plus the most relevant keywords potential customers are speaking or typing to discover apps. You might have noticed similarities of this process to search engine optimization (SEO) for websites, due to that app store optimization is also known as App Store SEO, Mobile App SEO, and App Search Optimization.

App Store and Play Store Ranking Factors

These platforms rely on strict algorithms to generate search results. The official information is not available, but through deduction and experience, it’s possible to gather key factors influencing the rankings.

Now that you’re familiar with the most important aspects of ASO, it’s crucial to have a strategic plan of action.

Organize a Coherent Optimization Strategy

Research is key, so hire a professional or conduct it yourself, but be mindful of the time and dedication it will take.

You have to know your users, to understand their needs and wants. By working out a specific target audience for your application, decision making will become easier and more logical.

Acknowledge Your Niche

In the 21st century, there is an app for everything, a lot of these applications have been on the market for many years and already established a user base community. Due to that, it can be very difficult to compete as a startup. By making your content more specific to a particular target group, you will break down this heavy task.

In order to achieve that, try using longer keywords – for example instead of “Recipes” it may be “Vegetarian Recipes” and so on. Once your rankings are high in your niche, it will be way easier to expand further.

Monetize

Luckily there are many ways to manifest money from your application.

• Advertise on Your Platforms

  Throughout the process of successful app store optimization, you will start to gain a certain audience on social media, app store itself and search engines. This following can be utilized to promote other content for a set price. However ensure that you’re not spamming with ads, as that can result in negative feedback from the public.

• Paid Application

  Some individuals set a price, for simply downloading their app. This can be very effective at raising profit, but you have to ensure that the material you provide is worth paying for. Otherwise people will simply choose your free competitors.

• In-App Purchases

  These can include any special features or upgrades.

Keep Improving

Firstly, you need to analyze how visible your app is at the moment. Check which search terms people use to discover your application, as well as, your keyword rankings. This can be done through radar applications, available on both IOS and Android platforms.

After that, you will start to notice which features perform the best with your target audience. If you’re still unsure about app store optimization, try asking for professional advice or conduct more research.

Consequently, make changes in correlations with the data you discover publish the update. Such check ups and optimizations should be conducted regularly to stay on top of your competitors and provide high quality experience for your users.

Big or small, anyone can make it with enough dedication! Never stop improving, and eventually, you’ll see that app store optimization is only challenging at first.