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Mobile Learning for Social Good - Roundtable Report

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Discussion Outcomes Following each of the presentations, participants had a chance to ask questions and provide insightful comments and suggestions to each of the speakers. Below, we have collated some of these important insights into a "Top 10" list: Top 10 Things to Consider When Developing a Mobile Strategy 1. Know your audience: Carefully consider your target audience - know their habits, tendencies, desires and any unique needs that they may have. When developing a mobile platform, it's especially important to consider the education and literacy rates of your users to ensure that the platform can be easily accessed and used. 2. Do your research: As you begin to explore developing a mobile strategy, it is likely that similar organizations have already done some of your work for you. Research what other organizations have done and what kind of mobile platforms are already available. Find out what has worked and what has not worked; it will make the development process a lot easier for you in the end. 3. Leverage existing tools: Find out how you can leverage existing programs and tools, and how to integrate them into your mobile strategy. This could include integrating established platforms into your mobile experience (social media, PayPal, etc), exploring open-source applications, or working with experienced partners. 4. Be willing to adapt: Mobile technology is constantly progressing and improving. Keep innovating and upgrading your mobile strategy in response to emerging trends, learning and evolving best practices. 5. Collaborate: Collaboration and knowledge-sharing is an excellent way to maximize positive results and to ensure that all organizations are achieving their objectives. You should also consider looking outside of the non-profit sector to collaborate, as there are many companies that are likely able and willing to contribute. 6. Always consider usability: Your app should be optimized for a mobile user, so make sure your app is compatible and functional across all popular platforms. Your mobile app should also be simple to use, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. 7. Create incentives: Consider having a feature that rewards users for constantly using the app or sharing it with other users. Reinforce the positive behaviour of users through incentives and by making the mobile platform fun to use. 8. Funding: Research potential grants and funding avenues that can help you to realize your mobile strategy. Also, be prepared for the development cycle to be in continuous beta and to cost more than you might expect. 9. Ensure meaningful engagement: Try to create opportunities for the user to provide input on your strategy, platform, or app. Comprehensively consult with users and stakeholders throughout the entire development process. 10. Cultural appropriateness: Ensure that your platform and its content are appropriate for different cultures and languages.

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