Usability Matters

Chapter 7. Data not from a user

This chapter covers

• Working with data from the internet
• Working with data from the device and other apps
• Working with data from sensors
• Using heuristics and analysis to infer input

In this chapter, I discuss ways of working with data that isn’t inputted directly by the person using the app. Many developers and companies overlook the opportunity to use this data. But it allows you to make a more intuitive experience and create processes that are faster and more pleasant to use. Common sources of input for your app that don’t come directly from the person using it include the following:

• Data from the internet— It’s the most common source of data in mobile apps.
• Data already on the device— Because apps often ...