SASOL Young Explorer App Case Study

Transcription

1 SASOL Young Explorer App Case Study

2 The Brief - Build an app that builds upon and improves the current series of My first book of children s books. - Must be educational yet fun. the book the client The Detail - ios and Android - Tablet only - Landscape only - Template that can be reused for further books/ apps - Native code The Extras - 4 interactive games - Grid and thumbnails to explore different species - Video - Audio narration (4 languages) - Animal call recordings - Record user s own audio

3 How we work - We appreciate how difficult it is to provide absolutely final designs, layouts and functionality at the outset. Apps need to evolve and improve through iterations, actual usage and broad feedback. - So we tried to get to a first working prototype as soon as possible in order that the client could review and refine it. - We used smart development techniques, such as starting the Learn section on ios (easiest due to fixed screen dimensions) and the Play section on Android (simpler gaming platform). The Process (1/2) - Initial briefing with client - We proposed a high-level app map and wireframes. - After a few iterations we had enough to start building. some of our wireframes the final product

4 The Process (2/2) - Continuous feedback and design refinement was especially important when it came to the interactive games - Rigorous testing and bug lists to avoid duplication. clean up the litter which one am I? jigsaw puzzle identify the animal memory cards How we added value - Made sure we really understood the client s desired outcome so we can sweat the detail within our development and testing process. This limits the need for the client to review multiple app versions which, in turn, saves a lot of time, confusion and expense. - Our expertise in design, UI/ UX and app monetization strategies meant that we could provide constructive input into the app navigation, layouts and commercial approach.

5 The Team - Weekly conference calls with detailed minutes were held. - Members of both teams worked very closely both through project chat rooms and direct messages. Why this is important - Within a complex app project it is critical to find the right balance between a formal project management methodology with the informal channels that really help to communicate requirements and issues. - A positive, fun and lively atmosphere is conducive to creativity and openness. - Ultimately a project that is a positive experience for the client is a good project for ourselves.

6 The End Product The SASOL Young Explorer app was launched in April 2015 within project timelines and to budget (other than minor, mutually agreed, enhancements to original scope). home screen

7 The End Product Fun, bright educational information about mammals presented in a variety of media. species screen

8 The End Product All content, including text and audio commentary, is provided in four languages (English, Afrikaans, Zulu and Xhosa). species screen (continued)

9 The End Product 4 multi-level games that are intuitive (don t require any instructions) and are designed to encurage education about mammals and the environment. game selection screen

10 The End Product For example, in this game the user must drag the litter from the watering hole into the rubbish bins. As they do so the animals, plants and insects return. conservation game - Further information, including screenshots and videos of children using the app, can be found at

11 The Client The Sasol Young Explorer App was a challenging project both creatively and technically, and Penguin Random House needed the right app development partner to make it possible. We considered a number of app developers and were fortunate to find App Developer Studio (ADS), who met our creative technical and commercial requirements. In the early scoping and planning stages ADS really helped with the UI and UX aspects and the feature specifications, leading to a solid technical brief which helped throughout the project. A highly iterative development approach, clear communication, and both teams working closely ensured the project was delivered on time and budget. ADS offer great app development as well as creative input and project management, which is a rare combination. Mark Seabrook, Digital Director, Penguin Random House South Africa

12 About Us - App Developer Studio is a full-service app development agency that builds beautiful, robust and commercially successful mobile applications. - We combine local project management, strategy and creative expertise with the cost-efficiencies of an offshore development team to plan, develop, design and launch apps that are not only striking but also meet our client s budget and timelines. - We have successfully collaborated with Penguin Random House on a range of mobile apps including the Sasol First Field Guide series and the Phone Ranger Safari Guide. - In addition, our own proprietary apps have been recognised for their excellence: - Africa: Live won the 'Best Travel App in Africa' award sponsored by Visa International and SA Tourism and has been downloaded more than 40,000 times. - The Bull Horns Panic Button app has become the best-selling app of its kind in South Africa. Please contact us about your next app project: Rob Maclean Managing Director rob@appdeveloperstudio.co.za,