App Development FAQs

Posted by Maeve, 22 Feb, 2012 | No Comments »

Got questions about the App Development Process? Our team has been producing mobile applications for several years now and have developed many apps for  iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and Android, a small selection of which you can see for yourself in our portfolio here.  If this is your first App these frequently asked questions may help you know what to expect from the process.

What does an app cost?

Price is hugely variable and depends on the scope and complexity of your app idea. We have built apps as low as $600 and as high as $100,000+.

Alex Ahlund, former CEO of AppVee and AndroidApps, and later an adviser to Appolicious, wrote a guest blog article about app sales on TechCrunch.  According to that article, a survey of 96 mobile app developers showed the average cost to develop an app was $6,453.  An article on OS X Daily about iPhone Development Costs reported that the development cost range for “small apps” is $3,000 to $8,000 and that “more complex or recognized brand apps” can cost $50,000 to $150,000.

So really to get an accurate idea of what YOUR app is going to cost you need to get a range of quotes from a selection of experienced app developers and firms.

What do you need in order to quote on our app?

The best way to start is to send us a short overview of your core concept, and describe the main functionality required. It doesn’t have to be too complex, just a really simple statement that describes exactly what your app is all about. Based on that we’ll usually be able to estimate a  ballpark price. If the estimate is within your budget we will guide you through a more detailed brief to understand your full requirements and to flesh out ideas. Our development team then goes through the specifications and we will send you a formal written quote for the project.

Who owns the idea? What about the finished app and source code?

The idea (intellectual property) is yours. When you work with us you are employing us to develop your concept. On completion of the project (and assuming all bills are paid) the finished app and all source code for the project will also belong to you.

Will you keep my idea private? Can you sign an NDA (Non Disclosure Agreement)?

Yes, your idea is safe with us. We are not interested in stealing your app idea. Our profits are made by providing good quality, honest and reliable development services. If it makes you feel more comfortable, please request an NDA from us here. (We have a simple, easy to understand, 1 page NDA you can use.)

Can you help us with the idea or do we have to come to you with a detailed concept?

It’s ok if your idea is pretty basic – we can help you flesh it out into an effective, creative and commercially viable app concept.

What platform should I use – iPhone, iPad, Android? What does it cost to do all of them?

The best platform to use depends a bit on your app idea, and on the target audience for the app. This is something worth thinking about and discussing with our development team. We often suggest developing for one of the major platforms (like iOS) first and see how the app performs, then release a version for the other platform (like Android) based on results. The cost for the second app is usually around 50% of the first.

How is my app distributed?

iOS apps are distributed through Apple, which requires you to register your company in the iOS Developer Program. Android apps are distributed through Google Play, via the Google Developer Console. Once you’re registered, we can handle the rest for you. We are experienced at the submission and distribution processes and will guide you smoothly through the whole procedure.