In a world inundated with apps, over 1.96 million in the Apple Store and 2.87 million in Google Play, ensuring a seamless user experience has become paramount. Yet, many enterprise applications remain notoriously complex and user-unfriendly. Chris Federspiel, CEO and Co-Founder of Blackthorn, is on a mission to change that narrative.
Rethinking Enterprise Software Usability
Chris emphasizes that while consumer apps prioritize intuitive design, enterprise software often lags behind. He believes that business applications should be as straightforward and user-centric as the apps we use daily. The goal? Develop software that doesn’t require an expert to operate.
“If you have an app that you can install and start using within, for example, 15 minutes… that is disruptive.” — Chris Federspiel
Key Insights from the Podcast
During his conversation with host KJ Helms, Chris delves into several critical aspects of user experience in the tech industry:
- Consumer-Grade Expectations: Users now expect business apps to mirror the simplicity and responsiveness of consumer applications.
- Speed and Efficiency: The demand for faster, easier, and more engaging experiences is reshaping how enterprise software is developed and implemented.
- Simplified Onboarding: Reducing the learning curve is essential. Chris advocates for applications that users can grasp and utilize effectively within minutes.
- Streamlined Operations: Tasks like scheduling events and managing payments should be straightforward, minimizing friction and maximizing productivity.
- Challenging the Status Quo: Chris critiques the stagnation in the SaaS industry, urging for innovation that prioritizes user experience over mere feature accumulation.
- A Call for an ‘Industrial Revolution’ in Software: To truly serve users, there needs to be a fundamental shift in how software is designed and delivered.
The Broader Impact
Chris’s approach isn’t just about improving software; it’s about redefining how businesses interact with technology. By focusing on user-centric design, companies can enhance efficiency, reduce training costs, and foster greater adoption of their tools.
Tune In to the Full Conversation
For a deeper dive into Chris’s insights and strategies for disrupting the user experience, listen to the full episode of the Disruption/Interruption Podcast:
Thank you to KJ Helms for hosting this enlightening discussion with Chris Federspiel on the Disruption/Interruption Podcast!