Having a mobile app built: process, stages and cost items

Having a mobile app built means turning an idea into software that runs on iOS and Android phones; the process usually consists of scoping, screen design, development, testing and release on the app stores.

1. Scope: the minimum viable product (MVP)

Trying to build every feature in the first version increases time and budget. Aim for the app to do one main job very well; leave other features for later versions.

2. Native or Flutter?

In native development, separate code is written for iOS and Android. With Flutter and similar frameworks, one codebase can produce apps for both platforms, which saves time and money for most business apps. Native can be better for special cases needing the camera, sensors or high performance. Ask the expert for a reasoned recommendation for your project.

3. Screen design

Seeing and approving a clickable prototype of the screens before coding prevents the most expensive mistake: coding the wrong thing.

4. Backend

Membership, data storage and push notifications may need a server (API) and an admin panel. This part is often as much work as the app itself; ask for it to be listed separately in the proposal.

Cost items

• Screen design (UI/UX)
• App development (iOS + Android)
• Server/API and admin panel
• Testing and bug fixing
• Store accounts: Apple Developer annual membership, Google Play one-time registration fee
• Server hosting and maintenance

Store release

Make sure the App Store and Google Play accounts are opened in your company's name. Apps are reviewed against store rules; a privacy policy, data usage disclosures and screenshots must be prepared.

Maintenance

Operating systems are updated every year; the app must be kept up to date too. Agree at the start how post-launch maintenance and small improvements will work.

Common mistakes

• Putting too many features into the first version
• Starting to code before the design is approved
• Forgetting the backend and admin panel in the proposal
• Having the store accounts opened in the expert's name
• Not writing source code handover into the agreement

FAQ

Can I turn my website into a mobile app?

Yes; you can have an app built that uses your site's content and features. Decide in advance which features really benefit from an app (notifications, offline use, etc.).

Will I own the app's source code?

That depends on your agreement with the expert. State in writing that the source code and accounts will be handed over to you.

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