Enhanced user experience
The app now delivers significantly enhanced user experience, putting customer needs first through the provision of key new features, combined with wholesale improvements to existing functionality.
A future-proofed product
By updating the tech stack and building natively, the product is now future-proofed and will allow for greater stability, and more efficient forward maintenance which will in turn drive improved ROI.
KPI Improvements
Targeted changes to improve conversions and engagement
The significant evolution in digital technology was a key driver behind our latest project for Newcastle Airport; a complete rebuild of the customer app.
In 2023, Microsoft announced its acquisition of the cross-platform app development framework Xamarin, planning to integrate it into its updated .NET platform (read more in our blog article ). With the Newcastle Airport customer app being built using Xamarin, this prompted a crucial decision point; continue with a cross-platform approach or switch to native development. Read on to hear more about how we navigated this crucial product decision with the Airport team - and took the opportunity to revamp the app’s UX.
Phase 1
The challenge
Our options
To develop an app to provide its customers with a more personalised experience and support their journey through the airport.
We had two options: adopt the latest version of .NET for cross-platform development or opt for fully native apps. Each option necessitated a complete rebuild to transition the product to an updated tech stack. The cross-platform route offered development and cost efficiencies, while the native approach required more effort but promised better reliability, and the ability to leverage native iOS and Android features respectively, for an enhanced user experience.
Our focus
In weighing up the options for the build approach, we focused on delivering the best possible user experience whilst maximising ROI for the client’s investment. Together, we also viewed this as an opportunity to enhance app functionality and design, aligning it with current user expectations. Key improvements the Airport team specifically wanted included enabling fully native booking and payment processes for ecommerce products like parking, fast track, and lounge services, and integrating Apple Pay and Google Pay. Additionally, they wanted the Eat, Shop & Drink section to work harder for them and showcase the Airport’s latest facilities.
Phase 2
The approach
Find your flight functionality
Implemented a live flight data API allowing users to select their flight from the arrivals and departures board, adding a dynamically updated flight card to their dashboard
Native booking and payment journeys
Integrated with booking platform Chauntry’s API to facilitate in-app booking and payment
Apple Pay and Google Pay
Enhanced the existing payment integration with NMI to support seamless payments using these options.
Eat, shop & drink
Combined improved UI and updated imagery to provide a premium user experience showcasing the airport's offerings.
Phase 3
The outcome
In supporting Newcastle International Airport with their decision to opt for native app development we were able to use the rebuild project to undertake a 360-degree review of the app, fully overhauling the UI, adding new and improved functionality, and championing CX across the user journeys.
The native approach allowed us to apply the skill of our iOS and Android development teams, who were able to leverage platform-specific features to craft seamless user experiences and deliver optimised and superior performance.
The investment is already generating a positive return, as seen through improved KPIs across the board.
Looking to achieve something similar?
Book a call with our team to discuss how we can help.
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