Micro-Apps

October 22nd, 2008 | Categories: blogs, content, design, launch, networks, social media, trends, usability

The way I see it, micro-apps are the future of the web application. These tiny apps only do one thing in particular - but they do it well. As opposed to more robust applications, micro-apps focus on a single task and target that problem with a specialized solution.

The most obvious example of this type of application is Twitter. This micro-app vaulted to the top ranks of the Internet in less than a year. The idea itself is extremely basic. The design, experience, and functionality are also quite simple. In fact, I would wager that any major technology company could replicate such an app with a reasonably-sized development group in less than a month.

So how come Twitter continues to thrive as the industry leader? First-mover advantage does account for some success, but only to a certain point. Once again, the idea can easily be copied. The secret formula lies in the name, reputation, and large user base, all used as protection against the competition.

Yet again, it must be stated that a micro-app isn’t overly complicated. Truly, it should appear ridiculously simple at first glance, but surprisingly remarkable upon further inspection. Complete focus on a single feature maintains focus and clarity, providing a utility that can’t often be matched by a more sophisticated offering.

Many times, these applications can be built in a month, week, or even a day. The magic lies in the simplicity. Therefore, a shorter time-line demands narrower vision.

Some use APIs, open source code, or RSS, while others may use a combination of elements to create a mash-up. In the end, simplicity will affirm feature purity, ultimately leading to product success and user adoption.

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

34 Comments

  1. Paul Says:

    Do you know of any micro-apps that have a fee-base revenue model rather than an advertising-based one?

    So far most of the good ones I have seen exist largely to build the reputations of the developers who built them. I have also seen a few that are ad-supported. But I haven’t seen any that charge fees. Are consumers willing to pay to use what “appears ridiculously simple”?

  2. Eric Berlin Says:

    I very much agree, Aidan. Before reading your article, was thinking how bloated and unintuitive a lot of recent social media platforms seem to be. If I can’t figure out “why I’m here” very very quickly, I’m out of there, and I suspect the same is true for most people.

    To Paul’s point, the biz model part is tricky obviously. That said, I *still* don’t get why twitter doesn’t throw (at the least) a 728×90 across the top of every single profile page. They’re waiting to do this… why? Even a low CPM will bring back some costs… or am I missing something here? And some (Jason Calacanis for one) has advocated for a Twitter freemium model. Not sure how many would opt into that, but you have to think that the clock starts to tick a little loudly at some point, right ?

  3. On social media “micro-apps,” Twitter, and business models ¦ Online Media Cultist Says:

    […] piece called Micro-Apps over on Aiden Henry’s Mapping the Web. I responded over there with the following thoughts: I […]

  4. Eugene Says:

    Nice article. Thanks. 🙂 Eugene

  5. Derek Says:

    Ok fine the name is easy to say and type/spell but wouldn’t you agree that the user base and reputation are a result of first mover and innovation?

  6. Aidan Says:

    Derek -

    I’m not referring to ‘name’ in a literal sense, but rather a branding sense. This deals more with reputation and loyalty. Add to that the Network Effect that starts to kick in with a large user base. The combination of all these factors leads to increased distance from competitors and barriers to entry.

    Cheers,
    Aidan

  7. Mike Templeton Says:

    Your argument about simplicity can even be seen in the current microblogging alternatives to Twitter: Pownce, Plurk, etc. Some of these other microblogging platforms have many more features and the ability to execute very unique functions, but they are not as simple and streamlined as Twitter, which is why they haven’t won out.

    Even though I love the idea of the micro-app and its ability to do one thing and do it well, I do believe there will come a time when people get tired of using 50 different micro-apps daily to complete a set of tasks. They would probably much rather have one big app that is robust and able to do all of those things at once, but the key is that this larger app must still be easy to navigate and utilize. If aggregation = bloat, the more powerful app won’t succeed.

  8. Josh Atkins Says:

    Great post — I guess we’re talk about, other than Twitter, FriendFeed, bit.ly, et al. (oh, and don’t forget http://www.isobamapresident.com)

  9. Webdesign Twente Says:

    Keep on the good job!

    — I guess we’re talk about, other than Twitter, FriendFeed, bit.ly, et al. (oh, and don’t forget

  10. alex Says:

    Apps really are the future as we all know by now, just take a look at the big success of the ipad and iphone wga premie

  11. wow gold Says:

    Do not ignore any ofThe little details

  12. women's isabel marant wedge casual sneakers shoes 344513 Says:

    women’s isabel marant wedge casual sneakers shoes 344513…

    nike air max 87 uk 142423 nike air max essential 1 532432 mac madly creative lipstick 322221 hogan factory outlet marche 010433 fitflop sko unto ufl is post 541451…

  13. cheap mlb jerseys for sale Says:

    The fitness of the Land Council as a national campaignPersist in reform furthermore innovation. Accelerate the the conversion process of government functions, further decentralization, decrease micro-transaction management. Strengthen planning, insurance plan, standard boot, innovative provider, strengthen market supervision, to produce competitive and orderly, alike participation in the market to play a role in current market environment. Follow the law of commercial development, improve the ma

  14. worst nhl jerseys Says:

    Although football is a man’s sport,nhl alternate jerseys, you should never judge by appearances,China Wholesale Jerseys, but the Spanish press has long been a consensus, Ivan - Campo Real Madrid whose players are on Soccer Jersey is the worst player in history they will permanent 2 year contract employing Reebok offers that coordinate structural portion that may allow Reebok to improve this specific service styling, degree of excellent in addition to internet marketing by using NFL certified fas

  15. Raiders Limited Jersey Says:

    Helmet design is the green white eagle wings Buchholz is a work in progress,Raiders Youth Jersey, but has continuously improved during his stint with the Sox in 2009 This week Rick Reilly writes a column about an amateur boxer killed in a charity match You can also look for shirts with fun sayings and logos on them Full ingredients natural supplements latest more intake of food that the contour technical specs to get rid of more pounds, which may be hidden away while more extra fats additionally

  16. more rugged siblings Says:

    The mobile phone offers a high-tech support to our lifestyle The new version of the phone variety attracts people to use this gadgetAlmost all cases are waterproof,read full coverage, all the design is flautless looks amazing in all design and appearance There is no need to remove the phone from the cover This is a world of high-quality gorgeous smartphones and cell phone devices If you want to charge the plug Belt holster is a protective case, microhectares plastic Those who love iPhone and wan

  17. leather iphone case Says:

    There are many available varieties on the market,read full coverage, make your phone from damage or any sudden shock a lotBelt clip essential accessories in the mobile phone world Shell to protect your love machine, phone and a variety of technical support, to bring you a better feel, stylish case can be perfectly combined with a mobile phone,hands-on with the leather & maple iphone 6 plus case and dock, make your phone more perfect Nylon and leather give a unique lookPerfect phone shell do all

  18. juli clover Says:

    They have different colors and designs6 plus belt clip is really impressive and available colors and patterns,spigen slim armor case for iphone 6 review, and iPhone The reason behind this is to provide a safe for your cell phone These cases have built-in screen saver double design It provides maintenance for your mobile phone Although the screen protection of these units support often end up ugly bruises and scratches On your phone does not scratch and fade to make your phone completely flat and

  19. spigen slim armor case for iphone 6 review Says:

    This Is it right? Is too small,juli clover, it will protect but not so cumbersome, you can in your pocket matches It’s more convenient to connect your phone withThe best part is,source, it is too thin,grovemade maple and leather iphone case, do not add to your iPhone more This is very convenient, give you a hands-free use mini station So choose the perfect situation to ensure that the equipment is kept safeMobile phone is a great invention of technology today These cases have built-in screen sav

  20. source Says:

    Shell to protect your love machine,source, phone and a variety of technical support, to bring you a better feel,leather iphone case, stylish case can be perfectly combined with a mobile phone, make your phone more perfect They are reasonable prices This is all the good features,juli clover, the smooth appearance of your iPhone, a smart choice It can clip in a belt or easily or loosen the belt Belt holster is a protective case, microhectares plastic Accessories include iPhone 6 Plus the protectiv

  21. 2015 New Nike NFL ST.Louis Rrams Elite Limited Game Jersey For Sale Says:

    6 swxy guestbookfreebitmyip,2015 New Nike NFL Seattle Seahawks Elite Limited Game Jersey For Saleedu cgi-bin codebook searchcgihttp: wwwcom E_GuestBooklxorg cgi-bin nwmojo mojophp,Oakland Raiders Mens Jersey?mod=space&uid=621360http: www 相关的主题文章: http: http://www.noshironet.jp bbs2 light.cgi http: http://www.ljusvattnetsif.se

  22. Ryan Tannehill Autograph Jersey 201-202berth.com/dolphins.html Says:

    These protections are no scratches If you want to charge the plug Belt holster is a protective case,Ryan Tannehill Women Jersey 201-202berth tannehill, microhectares plasticPerfect phone shell do all the workPerfect phone shell do all the work Every user wants to keep their phones from scratches brilliant sheen It’s said that like the space of credit cardHigh protection of mobile devices Shell to protect your love machine,Elite Aaron Rodgers Jersey, phone and a variety of technical support, to b

  23. cheap florida gators jerseys from china Says:

    We are sticking with quarterback Jay CutlerLAKE FOREST, Ill. The rebuilding of the Chicago Bears under new coach John Fox started with the signing linebacker Pernell McPhee,san jose sharks kid jerseys, as well as the expected return of quarterback Jay Cutler.New Bears general manager Ryan Pace and Fox for the first time confirmed Tuesday that their plans for rebounding from a 5 11 season under Marc Trestman include Cutler.”We’re moving forward with Jay Cutler as our starting quarterback,” Pace s

  24. shop real madrid jerseys Says:

    I’ll never really leave Ames’AMES The cupboards were bare as Laura Knott put the finishing touches on a clean,Cheap Ravens Justin Forsett Womens Jerseys From China Online Supply, soon to be vacant, kitchen in a nondescript apartment on Stanton Avenue.I know this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, said Knott,nhl jerseys china, one of seven inside linebackers vying for roster spots in Eagles camp. That s all the energy, the extra boost I need.He s confident,cheap kansas state wildcats jerseys fr

  25. New Style Cheap Daniel Sedin Jerseys All The Best Says:

    paid card could cost youKim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian have put their names on a number of commercial products over the past few years. They have successful clothing lines and perfume scents in addition to calendars and shoes. But the latest venture of the Kardashian girls, a pre paid Master Card, is creating quite a stir amongst critics.The first major criticism of the card is the fact that it is being marketed to kids as young as 13. Given that a lot of young women try to emulate these fas

  26. wild for kids Says:

    Damien Williams leads race for number two running back spotIn the battle for No. 2, Damien Williams looks to be No. 1.Williams is in a competition with LaMichael James as Miami’s primary backup to starting running back Lamar Miller,cheap maurkice pounc socks.Against the Carolina Panthers on Saturday night at Bank of America Stadium, Williams made a little Dolphins history and may have secured himself as Miami’s second running back.Williams ran the ball four times for 14 yards and a touchdown and

  27. cheap buffalo sabres evander kane jerseys Says:

    Detroit Lions’ Dan Orlovsky one of the worst backups in the NFL7, 2014.(Photo: Duane Burleson,wholesale heat jerseys from china, Associated Press)Starting quarterbacks in the NFL get a lot of attention maybe too much attention at times,cheap jerseys nfl.But with injury concerns piling up year after year, having a solid backup quarterback is becoming even more important. 29, ahead of only three players. “It’s a battle worth watching.”That’s true, there could be a battle for that No. 2 spot behind

  28. cheap Dwyane Wade jerseys supply Says:

    Brenton Bersin in battle for final WR spotThe battle is on for the final roster spot between Jarrett Boykin and Brenton Bersin, and as Jonathan Jones of The Charlotte Observer explains, both seem to know it.As Jones explains, if the Panthers choose to keep a sixth receiver on the roster, one of these two will likely be the man. As for the other five spots, well, they are all but locked in by the likes of Kelvin Benjamin,cheap mlb jerseys wholesale, Devin Funchess, Ted Ginn Jr.,wholesale nfl jers

  29. wholesale joe thornton jerseys Says:

    Forgotten Pain Reliever Gets Remarkable ResultsMany pain relievers have less effect over time. When you first use them, they may provide a very high level of relief. But with regular use, you find yourself taking more and more just to get the same relief.But what if a pain reliever gave you more relief the longer you took it? What if “felt better” after a week turned into “felt completely better” after 5 weeks?Well that’s exactly what happened to some chronic pain sufferers in 1979 when they tri

  30. Zemiuew Says:

    http://getcashday.gdn

  31. Armani women Shoes Cheap Says:

    Welcome to Here Cheap Jordans Online Store, Cheap Jordans Online For Sales! We Are Provide Best Quality Of Cheap Jordan Shoes, Cheap Retro Jordans: Air Jordan III (3) Retro · Air Jordan IV (4) Retro · Air Jordan V (5)· Air Jordan XIII (13).
    Armani women Shoes Cheap http://www.armani1975s.com/

  32. Asics Onitsuka Tiger Retro Says:

    Welcome to Here Cheap Jordans Online Store, Cheap Jordans Online For Sales! We Are Provide Best Quality Of Cheap Jordan Shoes, Cheap Retro Jordans: Air Jordan III (3) Retro · Air Jordan IV (4) Retro · Air Jordan V (5)· Air Jordan XIII (13).
    Asics Onitsuka Tiger Retro http://www.1asicsshoes.com/

  33. RB2132 Wayfarer Black In Red Frame Crystal Gr Says:

    Cheap Yeezy 350 Boost Sale! Best adidas Shoes Online!- KANYE WEST’S SHOES ONLINE.Popular Adidas Yeezy Shoes Sale and Special Kanye West Yeezy.Cheap Yeezy Boost. Yeezy Boost 350 v2 - Dark Green June 2017 Release The Yeezy 350 Boost is designed by Kanye West and is a low-top sneaker.
    RB2132 Wayfarer Black In Red Frame Crystal Gr http://www.raybansunglasses365.com/

  34. Zemhdyg Says:

    June 21 birthday numerology November 22 birthday numerology Numerology according to my date of birth Birthdate numerology love Numerology number 20 date of birth Numerology date of birth number 5
    http://numerologyforbirthdate.life

Leave a Comment