App development is a subject that many business founders explore; would an app improve their customer experience? Would an app increase sales? How easy is it to design an app?
To find out, we’ve been chatting with Chris Grant of Throneware Limited who shared the following checklist of things to consider with app development. Over to Chris…
When looking outsource app development, there are various important factors to consider. To help ensure that you choose the best developer, here are some tips that will help you navigate the process and make the best decision possible.
Define Your Requirements
To ensure that everyone involved in the project is on the same page you will need to outline your app’s requirements, features, functionalities, and overall goals. Having a clear vision will help app developers understand your project better and provide accurate estimates.
You should start with a Functional Requirements document, but you can also expand this and create visual mockups even interactive prototypes with tools such as Figma, Sketch, Marvel or Adobe XD etc. The requirements for the project will undoubtedly change as time goes on, but you should always ensure that your development backlog contains well specified new features and change requests.
Check Their Portfolio
Review the developer’s portfolio to assess the quality of their work. Look for apps similar to what you want to develop and evaluate their design, user experience, and functionality. Try to use as many pieces of software that they have produced as possible, and document your good / bad experiences.
Check References and Reviews
Speak to the developer’s previous clients to get their feedback about their experience working with them. Online reviews and ratings can also provide insights into their reputation and reliability.
Evaluate Technical Expertise
Assess the developer’s technical skills, expertise in relevant programming languages, frameworks, and platforms. Ensure they have experience with the specific technologies needed for your app.
Often a developer will try to use a technology or programming language for your project just because it is what they are most familiar with. Challenge the developer on why they are choosing certain technologies for your project and why they think their use will lead to the best possible results.
Communication and Collaboration
Assess their communication skills and willingness to collaborate. Effective communication is crucial for understanding your requirements, addressing concerns, and providing updates during the development process. If you can’t communicate with them clearly before the development process begins, then it is unlikely this will change during the project.
Understand the Development Process
Ask about their development process, methodologies and project management approach. Ensure it aligns with your expectations and allows for iterative development and constant feedback throughout the process.
Discuss Timeline and Milestones
Set clear timelines and milestones for the project and ensure the developer can commit to meeting them. Understand their approach to handling delays and how they plan to manage the project timeline.
You will need to keep your end of the bargain too! Reply promptly and concisely to any questions or requests from the developers while the project is in progress to ensure any delays are kept to a minimum.
Discuss Pricing and Budget
Clarify the pricing structure, payment terms, and overall budget. Ensure there are no hidden costs and that the pricing aligns with the quality of work you expect. You should also ask for estimated operating costs. It’s likely you’ll at least need a cloud based server and database to support your application, which will have a monthly fee associated. Having an estimate of these costs up front can help you with your cash flow forecasting.
Consider Maintenance and Support
Inquire about post-development services, including app maintenance, updates, and ongoing support. Ensure they offer support options after the app is launched and agree on pricing for these options before the project starts.
Legal Agreements and Contracts
Have a clear and comprehensive contract that outlines all terms and conditions, including ownership of code, confidentiality, payment terms, and dispute resolution. Many developers will send you their terms of service for you to agree to before the project starts. Feel free to challenge points from these documents and don’t sign them blindly without having them reviewed by an expert.
Enlist the help of an external expert
Speaking of experts, an independent expert with technical expertise can be invaluable when assisting you in the decision process. You may want to filter out the weaker proposals first then only review the competitive responses with the expert, to save time and money. An expert will be able to help you identify red flags or issues to overcome with each proposal before moving forward. Try networking or asking people you know within the industry to see if they can help or recommend someone who can assist.
If you have entrepreneurial spirit that’s ready to burst free, TEDCO Business Support is here to help. Give us a call on 0191 516 61 02 or drop us an email at hello@tedco.org.