AuctionsPlus has officially launched an updated version of its app. Pic: AuctionsPlus
An article by Alex McLaughlin
AuctionsPlus has officially launched an updated version of its app, featuring a host of improvements designed to enhance the user experience.
The revamped app boasts smoother navigation, advanced search options, and a host of new features aimed at making online livestock and machinery trading more efficient.
After acknowledging past issues with the app, AuctionsPlus has delivered a fresh design that better aligns with user needs. Key improvements include advanced customisable search filters and the ability to stay logged in, ensuring users have instant access to their accounts and receive real-time notifications.
Product Owner at AuctionsPlus, George Shannon, played a key role in the development of the newly launched app.
Balancing his role at AuctionsPlus with working on his family farm in Bookham, New South Wales, Mr Shannon brought a user’s perspective to the project.
“I work three days a week at AuctionsPlus and two days on the farm, where I use the app and the website, so I had experienced the same problems in the old app as everyone else,” Mr Shannon said.
He explained that the previous app was built years ago and hadn't kept pace with improvements made to the website, especially after the surge in sales during COVID-19.
“The app wasn’t shown the same love until now,” he said.
The app’s development team conducted extensive user research to ensure popular features like ease of logging in, navigation, and bidding remained intact. Mr Shannon emphasised the importance of user feedback in shaping the app.
“Testing ideas with our users is crucial to developing features. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in surveys and testing, whether via email or at Beef Week - it was a huge help in shaping the app,” Mr Shannon added.
He also highlighted new features, including improved filters and notifications, saying users should look out for these as they roll out.
Major upgrades include:
Improved navigation: Users can now enjoy a more intuitive browsing experience.
Advanced custom search: Enhanced filtering options allow users to pinpoint exactly what they need.
Stay logged in: Instant account access ensures users never miss out on a sale or important updates.
Early feedback from users has been overwhelmingly positive. Many assessors, vendors, and buyers have embraced the updated app, with some transitioning away from the web platform to the app for greater convenience.
AuctionsPlus assessor, Michael Quirk from O’Connor and Graney, Mount Gambier, praised the seamless transition between the app and the website.
"I had a play with the new app this morning and guess what ... it actually worked! It looks just like you're on the website, which I think people will like. I'm excited to try it during tomorrow’s auction,” Mr Quirk said.
AuctionsPlus buyer, Craig Gerhardt, echoed similar sentiments, noting how user-friendly the new app is.
"I’m finding the app really easy to use, and I actually prefer it over the website," Mr Gerhardt said.
Another buyer, Carol Olive, also commended the updated design, calling it "simple to use and follow".
The launch of the updated app marks a significant step forward for AuctionsPlus as it continues to streamline the experience for those in the agriculture industry. With real-time notifications, enhanced search capabilities, and a user-friendly interface, the new app is set to become a crucial tool for buyers and sellers alike.
