Most new businesses fail. So do a lot of apps. Why? It’s not just about having a cool idea – the steps you take (or don’t take) to go to market are crucial to your success or failure.
We spoke with a software engineering firm, who shared some secrets for the process of building an app. Turns out the idea is key, but the steps that follow are even more important to your new product launch.
App Developer Secrets
AWH, a 21-year old software engineering firm in Columbus, Ohio, breaks the app development process into four primary steps:
1. Thinking
The app “idea nugget” is crucial to your success, of course. But mapping a business plan that includes your target audience and how to reach them is just as important as figuring out the proper UI (user interface).
Consider these questions:
- How will the app integrate with other platforms?
- How will you attract, authenticate, and retain users?
- What devices will run your app?
- What’s your budget?
Map out a linear, organized path toward a successful product launch. Try to align with user needs and a unique market niche. This road map will help design the functionality of the platform.
2. Preparing
What partnerships will help you bring the app to fruition? When it comes to app building, it may take a village of programmers, designers, and marketing experts to create the kind of launch you’re dreaming about.
Your budget will dictate who you bring on board but beware of interpersonal drama that may sabotage a successful launch. Your job at this stage will be that of Product Manager, ensuring completion of the myriad tasks you’ve mapped out in your business plan.
3. Building
Mapping out the app’s functionality via wireframing starts the app build process. Your App Designer should come up with a graphics and color scheme that will be applied across the app. Developers create the code that brings the product to life.
Architectural, functional, and user-testers will try to break the app, providing you with important UI information, and highlighting any code glitch. This is the stage where you find out if a button doesn’t function properly, or data doesn’t collate or display well – and these are some of the most important tasks before launch.
4. Launch
After testing, your app will move to a host location, where more testing will occur. When you’re ready to launch, communicating the release of the product and developing a following is job one. What is the app's value proposition for users and what marketing venues will you use to share your new cool tool?
Once you’re live, remember that maintaining the app is also a part of the process. After go-live, support and maintenance will include user retention, tweaks related to user feedback, feature updates, and continual improvement.
Need Help? Apps R Us
Artisan Talent can help you find the right experts to help you launch your new app. Contact us when you’re ready to assemble your app developer dream team!
