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Awin for Publishers

UK / Awin AG

A mobile app empowering influencers to manage their affiliate marketing on the go

11 weeks

time to deliver the app

€88,000

budget for the initial product version

2 apps

developed using 1 codebase

From web to mobile – boosting active influencers

Challenge: Digital product not tailored to influencers' needs

Every business owner knows that if you don’t adapt to changing customer needs, you’ll fall behind. This applies even to industry leaders with years of success, like Awin. They approached us with a crucial challenge. But first, a bit about Awin.

Awin is a powerhouse in the affiliate marketing world, offering their services globally, with offices on four continents. Since 2000, they’ve been connecting over 1 million publishers with 30,000 advertisers.

So, what was Awin struggling with? The owners noticed that an increasing number of their publishers were influencers, who primarily use social media apps on mobile devices to publish their affiliate-linked content. The web platform wasn’t cutting it for them anymore.

The challenge: Influencers aren’t engaging with our client’s platform because it’s not tailored to their needs. It’s too big and complex for someone starting out as a publisher.

The business goal: Increase the number of active influencers. Boost the number of active collaborations between publishers and advertisers.

To tackle this challenge and achieve their objective, Awin decided to create a mobile app for publishers – a simplified version of the web platform. “We believe this form would be more approachable for them” said Christian Guzman, Awin’s Head of Engineering.

They wanted to run an experiment, budgeting nearly €90,000 to develop mobile apps for iOS and Android and see how users would respond. If successful, they planned to expand the product further.

With this challenge and budget, Christian came to us for a solution.

Solution: Provide influencers with a tool that makes engagement easier

Discovery and strategy

During our initial calls with Christian and his team, we thoroughly discussed their idea and expectations. Next, we ran a 3-day deep dive – a series of meetings where we defined the product goal: “Provide influencers with tools to be more efficient – to be in touch on the go.” In other words:

The product goal: Provide influencers with a more efficient tool that they can access anywhere, making it easier for them to stay engaged and productive.

We came up with a strategy to achieve this, set a timeline, and prepared a user story map. Additionally, we identified the key features for the first version of the product and confirmed that we could deliver it within 11 weeks, staying within the client’s budget. Following this, Hania, our UX/UI designer, prepared the app’s wireframes.

Given the project’s requirements and the client’s business goals, we agreed that using the cross-platform framework Flutter would be the ideal technological solution.

Bringing the idea to life

With a clear goal and strategy in place, we moved on to development and brought the idea to life! Thanks to our agile approach, fine-tuned process, and tech-savvy team, we delivered exactly what Awin needed on time and within budget. We completed the fully functional app in exactly 11 weeks.

Before publishing the app, Jakub – our UX Researcher – conducted usability tests using scenarios created with Awin. These tests revealed a few areas for improvement, such as label clarity and profile editing features, which we then implemented. However, users primarily appreciated the app for its intuitive interface, easy account switching, and the flexibility of choosing between link options. Overall, the app has been well-received by testers, confirming its effectiveness and potential for further success.

Last but not least, we handled the entire process of publishing the app on both Google Play and the App Store, with Awin providing the marketing materials. Both stores accepted the app on the first try, with no issues. Currently, we continue to support Awin with ongoing product maintenance.

Results: Hundreds of users even before the promotion started

The Awin for Publishers app has been available since July 2024. Our client is preparing to promote the app, but we already know that over 500 users have downloaded it even before the campaign has started. We’re thrilled to have helped Awin realize their vision and can’t wait to see what’s next!

Key features

Login

Publishers who already have an account on the Awin web platform can log into the mobile app via web view.

Selecting a publisher account

Users choose the account they want to use.

Creating links

Publishers create an affiliate link by entering the specific URL they want to direct their audience to.

Adding references

Users can add labels to their affiliate links to track and measure their performance.

Sharing the link

Publishers can shorten the link and copy it or share directly on their social media profiles.

Using ready-made offers

Users have access to a list of ready-to-share links offered by the advertisers.

Filtering offers

Publishers can filter offers by advertiser, type (Promotions, Coupons, and Exclusives), and status (Active, Expiring soon, and Upcoming).

Account details

In this section, users can switch between their accounts, log out, and access privacy policies, support, and licenses.

Affiliate marketing mobile app – how we did it

Design loved by users

During the deep dive phase, we sketched the main screens of the app and outlined the underlying logic to ensure clear understanding. The app encapsulates the core features of the existing web platform in a simplified form, intended for testing as a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Our UX/UI designer developed low-fidelity (lo-fi) wireframes and user flows, focusing on streamlining the existing processes for end users.

Maintaining visual consistency with Awin’s brand and web platform was crucial throughout the design process. We collaborated closely with Awin’s Head of Design and UX Writer at every stage to ensure alignment with their vision. The goal was to refresh the UI with the target audience in mind – primarily influencers. The app needed to be simple, enjoyable, and highly intuitive.

Once the design concept was confirmed, we developed detailed and polished high-fidelity (hi-fi) designs, incorporating essential components such as typography, color schemes, icons, buttons, bars, and repetitive UI elements in various states. Finally, we created a clickable prototype for interactive testing and finalized the designs.

To ensure we were on the right track, we tested user reactions to the design during usability tests. The feedback was very positive. Among other things, users appreciated the intuitive interface, especially during the link generation process.

UX/UI

Figma

Deep dive

Miro

Two apps, one codebase

We built an app for Android and iOS with one codebase using the Flutter framework and Dart language. We chose the BLoC (Business Logic Component) architecture pattern for its advantages in state management and separation of business logic, making the app more maintainable, testable, and scalable.

To better understand user behavior and align business and marketing strategies, we used Amplitude, an analytics platform that provides key insights for informed decision-making.

One of our main challenges was designing a custom offer ticket component. Existing libraries didn’t meet our criteria, so we built these components from scratch to meet the specific needs and standards of our product.

Framework

Flutter

Language

Dart

Architecture

BLoC

Networking

Dio

80% time savings in test case management

For testing the Awin app, we used several valuable tools. A major change compared to other projects was using:

  • TestPad for managing test cases,
  • AI to create test cases with Gherkin.

This approach saved us about 80% of the time usually spent on documentation. Additionally, our QA Engineer verified the AI-generated test cases to avoid syntax and logic errors.

An interesting challenge in this project was ensuring support for Android version 9, which is quite different from newer versions. To cover all scenarios and prevent bugs on older systems, we used Browserstack’s device farm, enabling us to test on real devices running version 9.

We ensured the quality of the product through our refined QA process, which includes:

  1. Task creation: The Product Owner describes the Acceptance Criteria
  2. Coding: Developers write the code
  3. Pull request: Developers prepare a new batch of code for review
  4. Continuous integration: Static code analysis, Unit Tests UI, and Integration tests
  5. Code review: Developers verify the code quality
  6. Manual tests: QA Engineers test the app manually
  7. Merge pull request: If the feature meets quality requirements, it’s merged into the main app code
  8. The feature is done: The app is updated with the new feature and ready to be reviewed by the PO
Test management

Jira, Testpad

AI tool

ChatGPT

Device farm

Browserstack

Listening to users

Once the app was ready, we conducted usability tests. How do users perceive it? Is it easy to use and understand? Are there any areas for improvement? We found answers to these questions and many more, refining the app before its release. Here’s what we found:

Positive feedback

  • Clear app flow: Users appreciated the intuitive interface, especially during the link generation process.
  • Easy account switching: The ability to switch accounts quickly was seen as a major convenience.
  • Link options: Users liked having the flexibility to choose between long and short links for promotion.
  • Simplified design: The app’s simple and understandable structure was well-received, contributing to a positive user experience.

Areas for improvement

  • Profile editing: Users suggested making it easier to edit personal information, like their name and profile picture.
  • Label clarity in link generator: Testers recommended clearer terminology to improve understanding.
  • Login on older devices: Simplifying the login process for users with older technology was suggested.
  • In-app tools and scrolling: Testers advised enhancing in-app guidance and improving scrolling functionality for better usability.

Summary of findings

Our analysis showed that the Awin app is user-friendly and facilitates link distribution effectively. The filtering function was appreciated and worked well for testers. After implementing the recommended changes, the app was well-positioned to achieve its goals successfully.

Tools

Dovetail was invaluable for our usability testing as it streamlined data collection, analysis, and reporting. Its tagging and highlighting features made it easy to identify key usability issues. The collaborative platform allowed our team to work together seamlessly.

Miro was very helpful as well, as it facilitated real-time collaboration and brainstorming. Its visual boards allowed us to map user flows, document feedback, and organize insights effectively. This helped our team stay aligned and make informed design decisions quickly.

Usability testing

Dovetail

Real-time collaboration

Miro

How the app works

Our client's voice comes first

Working with Droids On Roids has been truly exceptional. Their transparent communication – quick Slack messages instead of countless emails and meetings – makes everything smoother.

From the strategy phase, they were meticulous and delivered exactly what we agreed on, meeting all deadlines. Their expertise is evident, allowing me to relax and not worry about the details. Working with them feels like having your own internal team.

Christian Mairs
Product Owner, Awin AG

One product team

Breaking down walls, we became one collaborative team with a shared goal

Product Owner

Christian Mairs

Head of Engineering

Christian Guzman

Head of Design

Anna Jachimczak

Software Engineer

Jake Levine

Product Designer

Hanna Miashkova

Business Analyst

Maciej Marat

Scrum Master

Natalia Kosow

Flutter Developer

Monika Gadomska

QA Engineer

Dawid Łukasik

UX Researcher

Jakub Ochodek

Customer Success Manager

Joanna Śpiak-Jadłosz

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Top

FAQ on affiliate marketing app development

A mobile affiliate marketing app is a tool designed to help publishers manage and track their marketing activities directly from their mobile devices. These apps are tailored to streamline the process of promoting products and services, making it easier for publishers to generate links, monitor their performance, and engage with advertisers on the go. Here are some key features and benefits.

Key features:

  1. Link generation: Easily create affiliate links to promote products or services.
  2. Performance tracking: Monitor clicks, conversions, and commissions in real-time.
  3. Account management: Manage multiple affiliate accounts within the app.
  4. Integration with social media: Share links directly to social media platforms.
  5. Notifications and updates: Stay informed with alerts about new offers and performance metrics.
  6. Analytics and reporting: Access detailed reports to analyze the effectiveness of your campaigns.

Benefits:

  • Convenience: Manage your affiliate marketing efforts anytime, anywhere.
  • Efficiency: Streamline your workflow with user-friendly tools.
  • Improved engagement: Stay connected with your audience and advertisers.
  • Real-time data: Make informed decisions with up-to-date performance metrics.

For instance, the Awin for Publishers app is a mobile affiliate marketing solution that simplifies the process for influencers and content creators. It offers an intuitive interface, easy account switching, and the flexibility to choose between long and short links for promotion. This makes it one of the best apps for affiliate marketing.

Creating a mobile app for affiliate marketing can be a complex and time-consuming process. It’s often a good idea to outsource this task to experts who specialize in building affiliate marketing apps.

Why outsource?

  1. Expertise and experience: Companies specializing in building digital products have the know-how to create efficient and effective solutions tailored to your needs.
  2. Time and cost efficiency: Outsourcing can save time and reduce costs as specialized teams already have the tools and processes in place.
  3. Avoid recruitment hassle: Skip the time-consuming process of hiring and training an in-house team. When you team up with a company, you can start the project immediately.
  4. Focus on core business: By outsourcing, you can focus on your main business activities while experts handle the app development.

Choosing the right company to develop your app for affiliate marketing is crucial for ensuring the success of your project. Here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Experience with affiliate marketing apps: Look for a company with a proven track record in creating mobile apps for affiliate marketing or similar ones. Check their portfolio to see examples of their previous work. A diverse and robust portfolio will give you insights into their capability and style.
  2. Technical expertise: Ensure they are proficient with the latest technologies and frameworks, such as Flutter, which allows for cross-platform development.
  3. Client reviews and testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients to assess their satisfaction and the company’s reliability. Websites like Clutch.co provide detailed reviews and ratings from clients, which can help you asses the company’s reputation and quality of service.
  4. Post-launch support: Ensure they offer ongoing support and updates after the app is launched. This is crucial for maintaining and improving your product based on user feedback.
  5. Design and development process: Ask about their process for creating a digital product. Look for companies that have a structured approach, with clear stages from planning to design, development, testing, and deployment.

To sum up, by following these guidelines, you can find a reliable partner to help you create the best app for affiliate marketing, ensuring it meets your business goals and delivers a top-notch user experience.

Affiliate programs in a mobile app work similarly to web-based programs but are optimized for mobile users. In a mobile affiliate marketing app, affiliates can sign up for an affiliate program, generate unique affiliate links, and sometimes also track their performance all within the app. This kind of app can provide real-time data on clicks, conversions, and earnings, making it convenient for affiliates to manage their activities on the go.

Affiliate marketers can greatly benefit from using a mobile app by having the ability to manage their affiliate links and monitor their performance anytime, anywhere. Mobile apps provide real-time analytics, quick access to generate new affiliate links, and streamlined communication with advertisers, making the whole process more efficient and responsive.

An affiliate link is a unique URL that contains the affiliate’s ID or username. When a customer clicks on this link and makes a purchase, the affiliate earns a commission. In mobile apps, generating and sharing affiliate links is made easy, allowing affiliates to quickly promote products through social media or other channels directly from their mobile devices.

A mobile app can improve an affiliate marketing program by providing real-time data and analytics, easy link generation, and streamlined communication with advertisers. This makes it easier for affiliates to manage their activities and optimize their campaigns, leading to better performance and higher earnings.

App affiliates track their performance using built-in analytics tools within the mobile app. These tools provide data on clicks, conversions, and commissions, allowing affiliates to see which links are performing well and make adjustments as needed. This real-time tracking is crucial for optimizing affiliate marketing strategies.

Affiliate networks and referral programs are essential tools for affiliate marketers. They simplify how affiliate marketing work is managed and enhance earning potential.

Benefits:

  1. Access to multiple programs: Affiliate networks provide a range of affiliate marketing programs, allowing marketers to choose those that best fit their niche and audience.
  2. Easy management: These networks streamline the process of managing multiple affiliate programs, tracking clicks and conversions, and ensuring timely payouts.
  3. Extra earnings: Referral programs offer additional income through incentives and bonuses for bringing in new customers or affiliates.

By leveraging these tools, affiliate marketers can streamline their efforts and increase their earnings.