S I N C L A I R N E W S M O B I L E A P P S
Transforming Local News Apps
Background
In 2016, our organization faced a challenge with a multitude of separate local news apps, each managed independently. With 89 apps in total, the lack of consistency and centralized management posed significant issues. The task at hand was to overhaul this fragmented approach and create a unified design system that would maintain local branding while pulling content from a central CMS. The primary goal was to enhance the user experience, instilling trust and community connection while boosting our brand presence in each locality.
Approach
Over six years, we undertook a phased approach to redesign and streamline the local news apps. Initially, we developed separate native apps for iOS and Android platforms, reflecting the traditional approach. However, recognizing the need for efficiency and scalability, we transitioned to a unified codebase using React builds. This strategic shift allowed for easier maintenance and updates across both platforms, simplifying development efforts.
Design Iterations
Throughout the process, user feedback remained central to our design iterations. We conducted extensive research, engaged with stakeholders, and analyzed data from previous iterations to inform our decisions. Key improvements included enhancing the weather and video sections, optimizing ad placement for a non-intrusive experience, and refining navigation by decluttering and introducing breathing space.
Results
The culmination of our efforts resulted in significant improvements and measurable outcomes. Upon the launch of the redesigned apps over several months, we witnessed a remarkable 46% surge in overall screen views. This growth not only validated the effectiveness of the redesign but also underscored the importance of prioritizing user-centric design principles.
Conclusion
By consolidating 178 local news applications into a cohesive and user-friendly experience, we successfully achieved our objective of providing communities with trustworthy, locally relevant apps. Through iterative design improvements and a shift towards a unified codebase, we not only enhanced usability but also strengthened our brand presence in each area. This case study serves as a testament to the transformative power of strategic design thinking in the realm of mobile user experience.
