How are apps built ?

Most apps are built with a set goal in mind, often a problem has been established and the app developer sets out to solve this problem using the application via mobile or tablet device. Naturally, mobiles are the best for applications as a majority of people have one and it has access to a range of functions that can increase engagement with users.

The process :

1. Define the problem – A first step in app production is to define the problem as this contributes to the overall functionality of the app, the demographic and overall design influences and also gives the app an effective purpose.
2. Sketch it out – The next step involves placing ideas down on a piece of paper and brainstorming again the overall function. This can also be the stage where you decide to give the app away for free or use paid advertising or perhaps a one -time download fee.
3. Research – The next step involves assessing the competition in order to determine if the idea already exists, in which case you find the apps flaws and improve on them. You also get an idea of what others are doing, how they solve problems and how you can set yourself apart from them.
4. Wireframe – The wireframe essentially is a storyboard that allows you to flesh out the idea, decide on functionality and overall app function in a practical way. This helps to determine if ideas are do-able and set out any potential limitations.
5. Back-end development – Using the wireframe, you need to delineate your servers, APIs, and data diagrams. Essentially this is the building blocks of functionality that help your users engage. This can be coded but there are also plenty of do-it-yourself builders that can be utilised.
6. Testing – This stage involves people looking over your idea and giving feedback on what needs to be changed. This allows you to get another perspective on the project as well as helping to build an ideal persona of the potential end user.
7. Building – This essentially covers building your app and putting the puzzle together using the following 6-steps.
8. Painting – This stage involves designing the user interface and making the app appealing to the public. This is an important phase as it can make or break the hard work already put in. This then leads onto testing the app, modifying the results and repeating the process until the app can serve its purpose in an effective way.