Mobile Apps
Rationale
Carefully consider the reasons for developing any app before committing resources.
Apps are intended to take advantage of specific functionalities of a mobile device, such as GPS or camera capabilities. Mobile users are often looking for specific information for just-in-time needs, such as map locations or event times.
In this case, a more practical and cost effective solution would be to improve the mobile-friendliness of the existing web content.
Scope
Focus on a single subject and avoid adding unrelated features. The app should be able to function without undue dependencies on other applications or systems.
You should be able to describe the application in a short paragraph. It should align with the university's mission and enhance its image.
Your app should be targeted toward faculty, staff, and/or students of GVSU. It cannot be revenue-generating or advertising for anyone other than GVSU.
Initial Consultation
Contact Information Technology before you develop or commission a mobile app that will use Grand Valley's branding. Your project will require authorization from Information Technology, as well as consultation from University Marketing and the School of Computing throughout the process. We need to ensure that mobile apps support the university brand and are also compliant with copyright law, intellectual property regulations, and other university-related policies.
Development and Supervision
The app developer(s) must be a current member of GVSU's faculty, staff, or student body and must maintain the application for as long as they are employed or enrolled at the university. Student developers require the supervision of a faculty or staff member.
Review
Once developed, the app must be presented to Information Technology, University Marketing, and the School of Computing for quality assurance and technical review.
The review will cover the following key criteria:
- Adherence to mobile application distributor guidelines and conventions
- Adherence to GVSU identity standards
- Data and security integrity
- Ongoing development and support strategy
Maintenance
If/when the developer leaves the university, a decision will be made by a committee comprised of representatives from Information Technology, University Marketing, and the Applied Computing Institute about whether the application should be removed or maintained.
The app may be removed if it is deemed no longer useful, or the application may continue to be maintained, in which case a new developer will be assigned by the app's sponsoring department.