Mobile apps can be a critical component of an organization’s success strategy.
Startups, enterprises, and large companies are all working on apps nowadays to connect with customers or explore opportunities.
But mobile apps have a small margin for error. A buggy mobile app with low retention rates, a mobile that leaks user data, or a mobile app that has no roadmap can be dead before it starts.
The organizations that achieve their app Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) cover their bases by answering some important questions before starting development:
Article Contents
#1 What Are Your Goals?
Your outlined goals will determine your app development’s future. They goals be realistic, clearly defined, and based on market research.
An experienced mobile app development partner can help you with market research and also create a development plan that capitalizes on your insights.
#2 Who Will Develop The App?
The most important question you need to answer is who will develop the app. You can either do the job in-house or outsource the project to a software development company.
The most significant advantage of developing an app in-house is that your short-term costs will be lower. If there are no time constraints, you can also work on the project at your leisure.
However, more businesses are partnering with experienced and reputable app development agencies for the following benefits:
- They will create exactly what you need within your budget and timeframe.
- They can leverage their expertise to include the best features.
- A professionally developed app is more likely to attract investment and early adopters.
- Top software agencies have the protocols and resources to minimize crippling bugs.
When partnering with a mobile software agency, please select one careful. Choose a team that treats you like a partner and works with you every step of the way.
Avoid agencies that lack the skills, experience, and expertise for your project, even if they offer lower prices — or you may run into frustration and unforeseen roadblocks.
#3 What Platform Are You Targeting?
There are many platforms for you to target, including iOS, Android, and the Web.
Picking the right one depends on your objectives, budget, and your vision for your mobile software.
A.) Android
Google’s Android is the most popular platform globally. Approval on Android is easier to get than iOS though the platform can be less secure.
B.) iOS
Apple’s iOS has superior market share in Canada and the United States. It can also be easier to generate revenue on iOS than Android.
C.) Web
A web app can be accessed from any device with a browser and an internet connection. Web apps are faster and cheaper to develop than native apps but are less advanced.
Your best option is to develop an app for all three platforms for maximum market reach.
Larger organizations extending their services to all their customers, such as banks, will probably want to create all three.
However, a startup may want to being with one platform, before expanding to others.
#4 What Type Of App Are You Developing?
Are you interested in developing a native app or a hybrid app? A native app is developed especially for one platform and can take advantage of a device’s features.
A hybrid app is essentially a web app in a native app’s shell and can work on multiple platforms.
While hybrid apps are faster and cheaper to create, they aren’t as sophisticated as native apps.
Ideally, you should have a list of features in mind for your app before you start development. The type of app you create is impacted by these features.
For example, software that needs to take advantage of iPhone-specific hardware or software should be a native app.
#5 What Is Your Budget?
Your budget has a significant impact on your app’s development. If you don’t have enough funds for all the features, you can consider developing an MVP (Minimum Viable Product).
This barebones version of your app can help with design decisions and marketing.
It’s a good idea to wait if your budget is tight rather than develop a substandard app or work with an inexperienced developer to cut costs.
Some sources of funding for apps include:
- Personal savings
- Family and friends
- Banks
- Crowdfunding
- Angel investors
- Venture capitalists
Developing a mobile app can be a rewarding but challenging journey. You can avoid some common road bumps by staying prepared.
Or minor issues can snowball into difficult-to-manage obstacles.
Answer these five questions before starting development to ensure the success of your software.
Outline your objectives and your budget and select the right app development team and platform for your software.
