There is a good chance that app development is the next logical step for your business. When addressing applications, your mind may immediately think of mobile applications. You can find these handy little apps on the Apple App Store or the Google Play store. They are definitely the most popular form of software applications, but they are not the only kind. Businesses find themselves developing new applications regularly. Apps provide a certain function for their company. In this manner, it is similar to a mobile app, but more specific to the functions of your business. If you successfully complete application development for your business, you will begin to see a rise in your productivity.
Table of Contents
What is App Development?
Application development is the process of developing any sort of software application. In doing so, this requires designing, building, and implementing functions into an application. The goal of business application development is to automate certain processes and increase overall efficiency. Before starting development on your application, it is best to have a goal in mind. You will need to know exactly what your application is for, and how large the project will need to be. Once the specifics of your business needs are clearly outlined, you can begin considering what type of application to create.
Application Creation
The overall development of any sort of software is dependent upon what sort of app you hope to create. There a number of different types of applications, but many of them follow the same app-building process. Following the tried and true software application development steps will allow you to create an efficient app for your needs.
Types of App Development
There are a number of different types of apps that you can develop. Each one can be interchangeably useful for your business, but it is on you to correctly identify which application best services your goal. There are no right or wrong answers in this case, only an improvement in efficiency. Before entering the app-building process, make sure to select the type of app development that will work best for you.
Web Application Development
This type of app lives within a web server. The web server hosts the software application that you have developed. All that you need to access this sort of app is an internet browser. You can do this with any internet-connected computer, laptop, tablet, or phone. If you do so on a mobile device, it does not mean that this application is a mobile app. The software application was developed for the web, but it can simply be accessed from a mobile device. Examples of this type of app development includes ecommerce websites and online banking sites.
Custom Application Development
When it comes to business application development, you will most likely find yourself creating a custom app. You can create and design a custom application specifically for your business requirements. If you need anything done, you can do it yourself. Of course, there is also the option of outsourcing development to a tried and true developer. Either way, custom application development can be the most cost-effective route for creating the app of your dreams.
Using Databases
All good businesses keep track of their data. Database software is an efficient way to manage this data. The application will store and organize all of your data in an easily understandable manner. From there, you will be able to do whatever you want with this information. You can perform calculations, sort your data, and create shareable reports.
Mobile Apps
As previously mentioned, perhaps the most popular type of app development is mobile development. These are the apps that have taken over the world, whether they be easily digestible games or social media platforms. With that said, businesses can often benefit from mobile applications as well. Many well known software developers, such as Microsoft or Adobe, provide mobile versions of their largest products. In that same vein, you can develop mobile applications that will help you succeed on the go. The office can be wherever your client is, not just at your designated storefront.
Efficiency and Enterprise App Development
It is important that businesses have all the tools necessary to complete their goals. In many cases, you may need to rapidly deliver products. This is where enterprise applications and rapid applications come into play. Rapid applications, once developed, can efficiently keep track of your developed product while simultaneously delivering it to consumers. This is an undeniably useful tool that will provide your business with continued longevity. Enterprise applications are a type of software similar to database applications. These tools can store massive amounts of data while automating business processes. This type of business application development caters towards shipping. If combined with a rapid application, the two can effectively keep track of all shipping and processing.
App Development Steps
Now that you are aware of the most popular types of app development, you can begin implementing your knowledge. While each type of development varies, the software application development steps apply to each type. If you successfully follow and complete the steps, your new business application can help you to succeed.
1. Planning
With your newfound knowledge of app development, this step should take you no time at all. When it comes to planning your application, ensure that you are in the correct mindset. This means approaching your application from the standpoint that best serves your interest.
Every app begins with a single idea, so what is yours? How does it benefit you personally? Is it solely for your use or the use of others? These are the types of questions you will have to ask yourself while in the planning phase.
Once you’ve settled upon the correct software application for you or your business, it is time to sketch. Sketching out your plans is the most optimal way to ensure you are on the right path. If you are having trouble putting your vision to the page, you may need to reconsider your plans. If not, it is time to proceed with a well thought-out sketch of your application.
2. Analysis
There is already an app for almost everything. When developing an application, it is best to do a bit of market research. This will help your analyze apps similar to the one in your head. You can see what they do well and what they do poorly. It allows you to come to an understanding of what your space in the application world will be.
3. Create Designs
This is the last step you will have to complete before beginning the ground floor of development. App development requires many things, but eye-popping graphics may be one of the most important elements. The function of your application will be irrelevant if nobody can stand to look at it. In order to avoid this, it is best to create mockups of how you want your app to look. In a manner of speaking, it is the next step in refining your previous sketch. You will be able to define your more advanced elements at a later date, but keep them in mind now. This includes your user interface and color schemes. Use the rough outline of these elements to create a few eye-catching designs for your application.
4. Build
App development requires many things, but you should now have the knowledge to know what you want. The following steps will vary depending on the type of application you choose to develop. For nearly any app, you will need to create a landing page. This page will accurately and effectively describe your application. If you are a web based app, your app can proudly sit within this page. For a downloadable software application, or a mobile app, you can provide a link to download your product. Personal applications can skip the last step altogether, but all apps still require coding. The base coding of your application is the actual foundation of your app. You will need to complete this coding for your application to effectively perform the functions you want.
5. Test
With your new successfully developed app in hand, you will have to test it. Like many aspects of application development, this step is specific to your software. You must ensure that all functions of your app are working correctly. If it is being hosted on a website, the server must be good to go. It is up to your own wit to declare that your product is ready for launch.
6. Launch
You’ve done it! Your brand new state-of-the-art application is ready to be shown to the world. That is, of course, unless you are keeping it to yourself for private purposes. If not, it is time to host your application on an app store or a website. From these locations, users will be able to download your product at will. There are a number of hosting options, so make sure you carefully choose to one best for you.
7. Support
Now that your application is out in the world, it is time to listen to feedback. As time passes, problems with your software may occur. Lucky for you, you will be able to update your product as you see fit. This will help you provide the most seamless experience for users.
The Next Steps
With application development far behind you, a finished application needs to be utilized. Begin to apply your business application to the scenario you created it for. It will soon make a difference within your own personal space. If you choose to release it to others, you can begin receiving profits from your dividends. Either way, with your new application in hand, you will have streamlined a specific need for you and your business.
FAQs
-
Can I develop an app?
-
Where can I host an app?
-
How much does it cost to create an app?
-
How do I launch a business application?
-
Where can I build an application?
Contact Us Today!