How to Create an App

Creating an app can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. All you need to do is figure out what your app does, who you’re making it for, and how you’re going to make money off of it. If that sounds overwhelming, don’t worry; we’ve got your back!

Step 1

Understand what kind of app you’re looking to create. Are you interested in creating a game, or are you trying to develop a new business app? Maybe you want to make an educational app for kids or do something entirely different. Understanding your vision from step one will help ensure that your idea goes in a direction that’s viable—and fun! There are millions of apps on both Google Play and Apple’s App Store, but not all apps are created equal.

Step 2

Consider monetization options and choose one — Use free model, Ad support or paid model. Free model: You can offer your app for free, which means it’s supported by ads. This is a popular choice as it has low overhead and high visibility. Keep in mind that most of these apps have a limited shelf life and you might have to update them frequently to keep users coming back.

Step 3

Determine The Platforms You’ll Be Using

Step 4

Download a mobile app development platform like PhoneGap or HTML5. These tools allow you to build your apps in front-end languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript (with some limitations), which means you’ll get really good at using web technologies before trying to create native apps. Bonus: If you plan on creating an iOS app, there’s a free library called Cordova that can speed up development time with features such as push notifications and geolocation.

Step 5

Prepare a Business Plan. This will outline all aspects of your business in detail, helping you become more aware of how your business is going to be run. In it, include information on start-up capital and whether or not you intend to seek investment funding as well as how much of that money you think you’ll need immediately. What skills do you have in house? Who are your customers? What are your marketing strategies?

Step 6

Launch Your App on a Startup Site : If you want your app to be marketed, it’s best to start with a startup site such as Kickstarter or Indiegogo. These sites can help you build excitement about your app and generate initial interest among users—and investors. Apps that have been funded via these sites have seen success. Some notable examples include Temple Run 2, which garnered $473,000 in funding; and Monument Valley, which raised $1 million in funding.

Step 7

Figure out your app idea. If you don’t have one yet, you may want to read up on what a good app idea is or figure out where there’s an opportunity for a new app (e.g., most of your friends are playing games that aren’t available for smartphones). When picking an app idea, make sure it has strong demand: The best apps solve problems for users and provide something that users can’t get elsewhere.