Why user reviews are important

Although this article about why WSJ mobile app has 2 star ratings, it is also about why they should worry about the 2-star ratings.

“Existing subscribers feel so insulted by having to pay twice that their negative ratings dominate the App Store feedback. Thus, many potential new subscribers will see the 2-star rating and immediately abandon the application download. With 500,000 alternatives, people don’t have time for junk apps.”

And here is the most important part:

One Bad Screen = Millions Lost

“Although overall user experience is paramount, as this example shows, you must also pay attention to the details. A single bad screen can cost millions of dollars in lost revenue and brand value.

As the saying goes, you get only one chance to make a first impression. That’s why startup screens are crucial. This is particularly true for mobile users, who often have fairly low motivation to mess with apps they’ve downloaded for free. But even in “regular” software, the installation, setup, and initial screens can make or break an application.”