You may believe that packaged software is the answer for everything related to your business. However, such software can limit you in some ways, so it’s recommended to build and develop a custom app. But first things first – what is application development and why do you need it?
What Is Application Development?
So, what is app development? App development or application development is a process where you plan, design, create, and later test and launch a software application. Prototyping software development can be managed by a single developer or by a large MVP development company.
There are many elements that are part of this process and many factors that will affect its course. This includes the following:
- Project’s size,
- The specific requirements,
- The changes that will be applied,
- The size of the software prototyping team,
- Team’s experience,
- And the deadline.
And let’s quote the CEO of LinkedIn – “Almost without exception, the best products are developed by teams with a desire to solve a problem – not a company’s need to fulfill a strategy.”
The Advantages of App Development
One of the biggest advantages of building an app for your company is the fact that it will give you a competitive advantage. However, the key advantage is customer engagement, as apps provide an additional channel for businesses to interact with customers. It will give them quick access to products or services and a platform for feedback, and it will lead to stronger relationships and loyalty.
When it comes to branding, app development services by a reliable MVP software development team help businesses establish and reinforce their brand identity. Another major benefit is operational efficiency because you can make the processes related to your business run more smoothly, while also reducing costs and boosting productivity. And lastly, apps are crucial for collecting and analyzing data on user behavior, and they can be used to refine marketing strategies.
The Steps of App Development
The app development process is very complex and happens in several important steps. Each of these steps is crucial in creating the final product, especially the one that resonates with the needs and wants of the target audience.
Setting the Foundation and Analyzing the Market
This initial phase is crucial in shaping the app’s direction. It includes thorough research of the necessary hardware and software, analysis of market conditions and demand, and of competitors, and identification of opportunities. In this stage, developers, marketers, and business strategists work in synergy to establish the foundation for developing the app.
Creating the Design and Prototyping
In this phase, the focus is turning the requirements into an actual design. It begins with basic sketches and evolves into more detailed wireframes that provide a better concept of the app’s structure. Then, an initial product is developed and used for spotting and addressing potential challenges at an early stage.
Implementation and Code Writing
This is the phase where the app starts to materialize. Developers engage in extensive programming to bring the app to life, as they focus on both frontend web development (user interface and experience) and the backend web development (server-side processes) aspects of the application.
Extensive Testing and Refinement
After the development process is complete, the application undergoes extensive testing. This phase involves user testing that validates the app’s functionality and identifies any usability issues that might have slipped past during the earlier stages. It’s a critical phase where the application is enhanced and where developers make sure to deliver a great product to users.
Launch and Continuous Improvement
Once the app has passed all the tests, it’s ready for its market debut. After the launch of the product, it’s essential to keep an eye on and constantly monitor it so you can quickly address any bugs and issues that arise. The app also requires regular updates and improvements, and each should be thoroughly tested to confirm whether they are effective in improving user experience.
App vs. Software Development
App development and software development, while sharing some commonalities, are two separate fields with distinct characteristics. The primary differences between app development and software development are shown in the table below.
| Features | Application development | Software development |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Focuses on design, user experience, and customizable features. | Focuses on applying correct codes and sticking to quality standards. |
| Process | Involves strategy, design and branding, coding and development, launch, maintenance, and optimization. | Involves setting specifications, programming, designing, documenting, testing, and in the end – launching. |
| Design purpose | Apps are typically designed for specific tasks and are generally simpler in nature. | Software applications include a broader range of features and capabilities. |
| Release cycle | They are characterized by a faster release cycle, with frequent updates and new versions. | These products feature a relatively longer release cycle due to intensive coding and thorough specifications. |
Create Better Applications With Our Mobile App Development Company
According to ADTmag, 80% of non-IT workers will create apps by 2024, and more than 68% of them will do it with low- or no-code technologies. This allows overworked IT staff to concentrate on more difficult and important projects by relieving them of manual, repetitive duties. However, if you still need a partner for your MVP development journey, Juratech Solutions is here to help.
With our mobile app development services, your mobile app development or software creation can turn into rapid prototyping software development with ease. Don’t travel the vast sea of app development alone – contact us, and let’s talk about what we do and how we can be your partners.