Overview of the app development process: from idea to launch
Developing an app is a structured process that starts with a well-defined idea and ends with the launch. This process includes goal-setting, design, development, testing and roll-out. Clear communication and a clear plan are indispensable here.
Concept phase: idea, market research and product roadmap
It starts with the concept phase, in which the initial idea is formed. This phase revolves around understanding the user's core needs, establishing the app's objectives and defining the value proposition. It can be very valuable to conduct thorough market research, analyse the competition and create user personas to target the app to the right audience. This phase also involves developing a product roadmap, which sets out the project's vision, goals, and key milestones. Establishing a clear and achievable project plan at this early stage helps guide the development process and ensures that the final product is in line with stakeholder expectations.
Design phase: wireframes, user testing and visual designs
After the concept phase comes the design phase, which defines the user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) of the app. This phase includes wireframing, which outlines the basic structure of the app, followed by prototyping, which produces an interactive demo of the app. These prototypes are used for user testing to gather feedback and ensure that the app is intuitive and user-friendly. The design process is iterative; based on feedback, designs are modified to ensure the best user experience. It is essential that the design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, with clear and easy navigation that helps users achieve their goals efficiently.
Development phase: from many lines of code to the App Store and Google Play
The final phase is the development and launch phase, where the actual building of the app takes place. This process is typically divided into several development sprints, with each sprint focusing on building and testing specific app features. Developers work on both the frontend (the user interface) and the backend (server, database, integrations) of the app. During this phase, continuous quality assurance is essential; this includes running various tests such as unit tests, integration tests and user tests to ensure that the app is free of bugs and functions properly. Development is followed by the launch phase, where the app is deployed to the Apple App Store and Google Play, making it available to end users. After launch, it is crucial to continue collecting user feedback, monitoring app performance and performing regular updates to keep the app relevant and functional.
Wondering how we approach this at 9to5? Read all about our working method here. Or continue reading here about other tips on getting apps developed for your company.
