How to Develop an Mobile App in 9 Easy Steps (2023 Guide)


Develop an Mobile App in  Easy Steps
At one point, companies usually contracted out mobile app development because of limited budgets and lengthy timelines. But, with the help of helpful tools for development and software programs that perform the bulk of the heavy lifting small-scale businesses are creating mobile apps internally.

In the process, increasing numbers of companies are adopting the benefits of mobile app development , whether for internal or customer-facing. While developing an app at first can be intimidating, it can be a very satisfying experience. This complete guide will walk you through the entire app development process to assist you in creating an app that is successful.

What are the most important things to consider prior to developing an app for mobile devices?
There are a few things to consider prior to spending time and money developing a mobile application. Although creating an app can be fairly straightforward, designing an effective digital solution could be a bit more complicated.



1. Select the operating system you will use

There are currently two major operating systems available: iOS and Android. Is your app an native app, meaning it was designed specifically for a particular OS? Choices regarding compatibility with software directly impact the functionality of your app.

A cross-platform framework, or an application that is compatible with the two platforms iOS and Android will usually be the best for the future goals of development. It's an easy method to build your app to ensure its longevity, as many more users are able to use it. To assist you in making a decision what you want to achieve, think about your goals for the app's growth.

2. Know your target audience

Be sure to have a clear understanding of your persona. Learn who your customers are, their needs in life, their habits and preferences as well as the mobile and platform they are using. Here is the place where app's marketing could come in. Your app should be tailored to the people you want to reach, so that they can to enjoy it and keep to provide them with a positive experience.

3. prove your app concept

Before getting down to the details and taking the first concrete development steps, you should consider whether your app can be the solution to an existing issue. If so then think about the ways it could aid. If your application is tailored to your business Consider how the digital solution will aid the goals of your business.

Reflecting at this point in the development process will allow you to see the future direction of your app. Make sure you have your top priorities set for the application, and make sure everyone in your team is on the same page on the most important objectives. Then you'll know how to begin on a solid footing.

4. Be aware of what's available

Conduct your own research to be sure that your concept isn't in the marketplace. It's not a good idea to design your own application only to discover that a similar app already exists, presenting your idea less of an original concept than you imagined.

It is important to ensure that your app's strategy is unique to your company , and user-friendly for the people you want to target. If your app is specific to a specific business, make sure you look at the competition in order to gain the way your app will perform against other apps already in the market.

5. Design your app and the security

Your app's design is essential to the success of your app. The design of the app must include an intuitive user interface. The more simple it is to use, the more likely users to download the application. Content is also the top priority in design and security should be a top priority. Users have valuable and sensitive information stored on their smartphones. You should be aware of the privacy features that protect your data and settings. The more sophisticated your application's security protocols are more secure, the more secure.

How to create an app in just 9 steps

The process of creating an app isn't something that happens overnight. There are a number of actions your developers should be taking to ensure that the app is launched correctly. Read on to discover our nine-step step-by-step guide to help you begin making a mobile application:
  • Create an organization
  • Conduct research on competition
  • Outline core features
  • Create mockups
  • Plan app security
  • Begin to code
  • Take multiple tests
  • Collect and use feedback
The app store will be the first to launch the new version.

1. Establish a development team

Making an app has been made more simple by using a variety of software applications and online tools like app builders. But, any programming language is just another language. The process of developing an app is a major task that should be done by a group of individuals. Mobile applications have numerous complicated components which must come together.

In this regard the first step to creating a mobile application is to form a competent team. In order to develop an app successfully you'll gain a lot from a team of professionals who have different backgrounds and skills.

The development of a distributed team could aid in the development of an app using the best independent talent. Instead of being restricted to your expertise or being confined to geographical borders You can choose individuals who have unique skills. For a start, go at Upwork to locate the most proficient application developers on mobile for your task.

At the very least the team responsible for developing your app should comprise of:

Product manager: Creates technical specifications and roadmaps, as well as deadlines, requirements , and guides the team. UX/UI designer: Design the icons, graphics and animations. They ensure that the app is fun and easy to use.

 Mobile developer Coding functionality, and integrating databases, APIs and more.
Analyst for Quality Assurance: Checks the app to ensure that it works flawlessly on all devices. They are responsible for identifying issues, bugs in UX writing and much more.
Digital marketer: Make sure your app to launch successfully making use of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and creating mobile analytics.

 App development teams may even include additional members. For example, bigger teams could include an UX writer or software developer, a web engineers, software engineer and technical writers.

When you are forming your team, take into consideration your budget and what areas you require additional help to address. Employing freelancers for specific jobs can help ensure that your app's user-friendly while staying within your budget.

2. Conduct research about competition


With over 2.20 million apps accessible to Apple users, and over 3.40 million accessible to Android customers, it's crucial to understand exactly the competition in terms of competitor features and requirements of customers so that you're able to ensure your app stands in the crowd.

Begin by looking up the market to discover applications created by your competitors. It is possible to outline the things your competitors have done correctly and where they've come short. This type of research will provide you with specific insights on what customers prefer and what you can take into consideration.

It's also crucial to comprehend the market you're entering. You must be able to explain why your market requires your application and explain what you're doing differently to resolve issues. In this phase you might want to think about speaking with potential customers. Conducting interviews with customers to get feedback from them will give you an insight into their preferences. This can allow your team to design functions that other businesses have left out and give your mobile application an advantage.

3. Outline core features


The next step is to establish the core app features. Once you know what's missing in the market and what customers are looking for, you'll be able develop important features that other development teams have not considered.

The majority of mobile app developers design an app for mobile that is user-friendly, intuitive, easy to use, customizable, and easy to use. Alongside this fundamental base, consider the features that will distinguish your app from other apps. A few essential features to have include ease of use as well as speed and resolution for images. These are the essential elements to provide a great user experience.

Another option to consider is cross-platform support, which means the ability to work with two operating systems. The inclusion of a search feature is another excellent utility feature to keep users interested. Although it isn't as effective for games, providing the capability to search within the app is a great alternative for e-commerce applications and social media applications.

Additionally, you should consider the possibility of allowing users push notifications or social media links. These are fantastic ways to present users with relevant and customized information that keeps them engaged and engaged for the long run.

Although there are a myriad of exciting options to think about as an app creator be sure to take into account your business's financial capacity when describing the features you want to implement. For instance, if you may want to incorporate facial recognition as a way to log in but this could cost a lot to build. Remember that you are able to include new features or updates after the app has been launched.

4. Create mockups


Once the requirements have been established and the most important features defined, it is crucial to include an interface for users (UI) as well as UX designer create templates, mockups, and occasionally a guideline of what you can expect from the application.

A mockup is a precise sketch of the design of the application. A typical mockup will have a consistent style of typography and color scheme. It contains images, the fundamental layout and much more. If done correctly the mockup will give the team working on the app an idea of what the app's design and work.

The benefits of a mockup comprise:

It allows the team developing the app to alter the design of the app.
If you're trying to find investors, you should show your potential investors before the development team starts programming.
Describes the requirements to the team of  development.

5. Plan great app security


The next step to build applications is one of the most crucial features that your app could have security. Protecting users from cybercriminals who would steal their information is crucial. One breach of the application could cause your company the loss of customers and could cost thousands of dollars. Make sure that your mobile app and platform are both secure:

Data encrypted:- It's always an excellent idea to utilize the right encryption method for sensitive personal information that is scattered across the application's software. Security measures that are appropriate include encryption of your local cache, database or API communication.

Authorized APIs:- APIs for application programming (APIs) are vital to the backend of development. Be sure that the APIs you are using for your application comply with the requirements for verification on the platform your application runs on.

Secure authentication:- Make sure your app uses the appropriate cryptographic key management system and the appropriate session authorizations for users, or tokens. Tokens are usually allocated to every device and have various expiration dates for sessions.

Tamper-detection software:- In order to keep hackers from getting in the way Consider incorporating the security features for mobile devices, such as tamper detection software as well as other third-party software. For instance, inter process communication (IPC) can be a security feature that lets you communicate with other systems and applications. There are a variety of Apple software - as well as Android-specific programs as well as other UI security tools that aid in the prevention of tampering.

Testing on a regular basis for vulnerabilities:- First, ensure that you check for breaches on a regular basis. Through the entire process of development always review your code. Look for security vulnerabilities before hackers do when the app is made live.

6. Start coding


There are various aspects to take into consideration when you begin to code. The first is the front and back end code. Front-end development is how the app functions. It is also the "face" of the app--what the user will be able to see. Back-end development concerns what's happening "behind the scenes" code that controls how the app works.

If you're managing a team comprised of several developers (e.g. that some are working in the front while others working on the backend). You'll need to coordinate your the work process to create the final product is unified. Utilizing an Agile approach to project management is a great option, as it allows the development of efficient, adaptable, and flexible programming.

Furthermore, ensure that your team program in the test environment. Set up a test environment to verify the program's performance is crucial in ensuring the successful completion of the application. The test environment includes the front-end environment, database server operating system and network. It is also possible to designate an instrument for bug reporting to ensure the accuracy and precision of test data.

7. Conduct multiple tests


It's tempting to skim thorough testing when a project is under a strict budget Quality assurance (QA)   is among the essential elements of creating an app that is successful. Because the development of apps is fast-paced, it's essential to ensure that you are able to test your app throughout the entire process of development. So your team can spot any issues and improve the app prior to it being released to users.
A few things that the QA team should be thinking about during testing are:

Front-end and. back-end function for the front end is the mobile app able to appear as it should from the user's perspective of things? For the backend does the app work exactly as it is supposed to? For instance, if a pop-up is supposed to go away when the user clicks it does it? Does the small "X" to click it away correctly displayed?

App compatibility with devices: The application must be tested on any operating system is it intended for (iOS or Android and/or both). Additionally the QA team must ensure compatibility between different OS versions (e.g., Android 7.0 as opposed to Android 10.0). There are other device-specific requirements such as whether the app's displays properly on the screen.

Integration with apps: If the app's main function is interconnected with other functions for example, the camera on your phone or an application like Google Maps, is this integration working?
Type of app The purpose of the app is to function as an app for mobile and on the web (making it"a "hybrid" app), it must be tested for the entire capabilities on both platforms.

Storage and installation The app should be downloaded properly to the machine and OS? Keep an eye on the size of the app. A large application will be a huge burden on space on the user's smartphone and could discourage people from downloading it in the first place.

Security optimization: Security of mobile apps is a hot subject. Make sure that the app is secure by checking source code, conducting penetration tests and executing input validation. Additional steps , such as verifying the use for HTTPS or SSL/TLS layers of security is advised.

Overall All in all, the QA phase helps teams to ensure that the app is prepared for launch.

8. Take and apply feedback from users


After thorough testing, the app will be inspected by a user of the test group prior to  launch.  Although the developers must base features on the needs of customers but having someone who doesn't have any experience with the app may in providing valuable feedback from users to make sure it's ready to be  used by a wide range of users who have different levels of experience.

The app's testing with different users will help your team develop an idea of their needs and whether the app is in line with expectations. This will help the team modify key features to meet the needs of the diverse user base better prior to the app going live.

When the app is launched it's important to keep getting feedback so you can make any necessary updates and changes as required. One method to gather feedback after the release for the application through reviewing the statistics. It will aid your team in understanding the behavior of customers and pinpoint any difficult areas to modify. This kind of knowledge will also allow the team to make changes to the app prior to the launch of the application.

9. Launch on the App Store


Finally, you can publish your app to apps on the store. The rules your app has to adhere to depend upon the store to which you're applying. Different app stores have distinct rules for applications that are submitted to them.

Developers can only concentrate on releasing their app on either the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. A single platform could simplify the development process since your team will only need to build only one application.

However making an app only designed for Google Play or Apple can restrict your potential audience. Both apps have their own disadvantages but an app that is cross-platform will give you visibility and the possibility of many more customers.

FAQs for mobile app development

How much will it cost to build an app for mobile devices?

The cost of creating your app will depend on a variety of aspects, such as what size your staff is comprised of, resources you use and the other expenses associated with app development. Outsourcing app development generally is more expensive than creating an app internally.

How long will it take to develop a mobile application?

It takes between one and two months to design the smallest mobile application. The more complex and elaborate the design of the app more complex, the longer it'll take. App developers can anticipate bigger more complex mobile apps to take between three and six months.

Are you able to make modifications to mobile apps following its release?

Yes, you are able to incorporate updates to correct minor issues in the application and enhance the functions of your app, which may have become obsolete after the release of your application.
Are you able to make payments using an app on your mobile?

Payments can be received through an app, and allow users to purchase items through the app. If you've already created the app, you could consider including mobile payment capabilities to the application.

Benefit from the development of mobile apps

The process of developing an app isn't just rewarding, but it can also be extremely profitable. These nine steps can aid you in developing and launching an app that is successful.

Numerous startups and companies have discovered remote talent as an effective method of locating the brightest and most talented people in the market to build a successful product. Contact Upwork today to connect you with an app creator who is an independent company now to get to begin.

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