Tuesday 18 October 2016

Getting started with small business app development

Developing a mobile app has turned from an option into a requirement. Especially in this day and age where everyone is constantly on their phones, mobile apps are necessary for any business. However with the millions of apps standing out is tough. Understanding the crowded marketplace and creating a massive following is a challenge and here are some general tips, guides, and suggestions on creating and maintaining a successful mobile app.


1. Find the right mobile app developer and designer

Creating an app isn't as hard as it was 6-7 years ago. There are many trained and experience app designer and developers who are up for the task. In addition to them, there are tons of Youtube videos that you can use to your advantage to successfully create the app you want. Additionally, you will find many blogs posts and forums such as Reddit, that will give you helpful advice. Depending on the route you decide to take, this can range between $200-$2000USD: stated by pcmag.com. Speaking of money, here is the second tip you should know.

2. Know your budget

When deciding to create their first mobile app, small businesses don't know the correct budget. Most small business owners don't have a clue on how much certain features cost or how much money should be charged depending on complexity. Consequently, most are overcharged and never know; it's a priority to do research on how much certain features should cost so you won't be scammed out of your money.  A lack of knowledge of the technical aspects of app development is the gravest mistake a small business can make. Software developers and designers will take advantage of this faux pas and overcharge you for some of the simplest features to input. 

3. Know your requirements

Having a well-constructed idea of what you want and most importantly what you need, will not only help you but communicate with designers so they can create your perfect application. This is why it is important to know and research the cost of making an app and the various features it might have.   the idea of doing research on the expenses of creating an app. This can save you both time and money.

4. Know how to maintain the app.

Knowing the basics of maintaining a functional server is important, in the unfortunate case of a server crash or an unexpected hack. You don't have to be a database expert to know how to reconnect your SQL servers but it does require some knowledge. Knowing how to govern your app, and keep it running smoothly, will have to be solved by you sometimes. It isn't for certain that your app team will be available and sometimes you will have to solve problems for yourself. This is why having some in house technical knowledge is important.

5. Make a Profit.

Most apps don't break even, believe it or not and small business apps have a hard time generating a profit. Considering this, knowing your targeted market and why they will find your app useful is important. Do your research and be sure that people will find a real use for your app. In addition, make sure they will pay money for the operation of your app that is connected to your small business. Even if you can't sell something on your app, be certain that the app will generate buzz around your small business.

6. Choose the right platform

Choosing between iOS or Android depends on your targeted demographic. Android applications users are more global but there is more fragmentation and a large range of devices at different costs while iOS devices are all expensive. While you might get more engagement with an Android app, iOS users tend to pay more for apps. It's pretty safe to say that iOS generate s more revenue than Android. If that does not convince you, creating an iOS app is cheaper than developing for Android. Obviously, developing on the iOS platform is 10x smarter and more economical than Android. So when is it smart to use Android? Only develop on Android if you want to target more users as it has a much larger global market share. 
One great article to better understand which to choose from is http://savvyapps.com/blog/android-vs-ios-which-platform-to-build-for-first

Conclusion


Creating an app that will generate you a profit for your small business isn't easy, but following these steps will guarantee you success in your business venture. Good luck brave entrepreneur and enjoy the journey!

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