App Development

Unique business challenges require custom solutions.

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What is app development?

Application development is an umbrella term for the creation of a computer script or program that performs a business task. Some apps automate repetitive tasks and connect resources, while others make it easier to manage data. Whatever the goal, businesses use apps to solve unique business challenges.

Many off-the-shelf apps, such as the accounting software QuickBooks, were created as general business solutions. However, to accommodate specific needs, business owners must hire a software developer to create a custom app, or build one on their own using an application development platform.

App development methodologies.

App development can take different forms, depending on business processes and requirements. The most common, though, are waterfall and agile development methodologies.

Waterfall

Traditional method of app development.

Project phases are completed before the next phase begins.

Clearly-defined roles and responsibilities for development, operations, QA, and testing.

Agile

Large project divided into smaller steps which are continuously updated.

Changes implemented mid-stream.

Significant developer experience required.

Why app development?

App development helps businesses solve challenges, either with general (off-the-shelf) or custom solutions.

Apps can automate tasks or processes, improving efficiency and allowing businesses to channel resources to higher-level objectives.

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Types of app development.

Desktop

Desktop apps run on operating systems like macOS, Windows, and Linux for businesses that use desktops, laptops, or independent (standalone) devices. These apps also connect users through a company intranet or over the internet. Desktop apps do not require network connections.

Web

Web apps live on remote servers, which deliver information to a device (laptop, desktop, or mobile) over the internet. Web apps are generally not downloaded, but accessed as needed through a web browser, which connects the user to the app on the server where it resides.

Mobile

Mobile applications can be developed as native (targeted to a specific mobile platform), hybrid, or web apps. As remote workforces continue to grow, companies rely on apps created for smartphones, tablets, and mobile devices more than ever.

Stages of app development.

1

Planning

Define the goal and outline a possible solution.

2

Analysis

Determine solution requirements and challenges.

3

Design

Clearly define features, noting which are essential and which are optional.

4

Construction

Build the app, prioritizing essential elements then adding features.

5

Testing

Complete quality assurance to find and fix bugs and errors.

6

Release

Deploy the app to end users, with benchmarking to measure success.

7

Maintenance

Monitor the user experience, correcting issues as they arise.

Benefits of custom app development.

Off-the-shelf solutions cannot meet the specific requirements of your business, or provide the same benefits, as custom solutions.

Efficiency

Streamline repetitive tasks and focus your organization’s efforts on high-level strategies. A custom app can automate tasks and relieve employees of the dual burdens of administrative and data management.

Integration

Integrate a custom app with other legacy solutions that are already in use. Custom apps can be built specifically to integrate with both old and new tech, helping businesses to improve operations.

Customer experience

Create a custom app to solve a specific customer service challenge or streamline the entire customer experience. Custom apps can also be developed to add new services or products that enhance the customer journey.

Learn what low-code is, why it matters, and how to use it.

Find out how to use low-code application development to solve your unique business challenges by downloading our ebook, The 101 on low code. In it, you’ll learn how to:

  • Improve efficiency with custom low-code applications.
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